Amino-silane co-functionalized h-BN nanofibers with anti-corrosive function for epoxy coating

In this research, hexagonal boron nitride nanofibers co-functionalized with polydopamine and (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (Fh-BNNFs) are used for developing anti-corrosion solvent-based nanocomposite epoxy coatings. The h-BNNFs are successfully synthesized by utilizing inexpensive precursors of melamine and boric acid. The prepared nanomaterials are characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms. The corrosion resistance of the pure and nanocomposite epoxy coatings is investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Potentiodynamic polarization tests, salt spray, and pull-off adhesion measurements. The results indicate that the epoxy nanocomposite coatings containing optimum amount of the Fh-BNNFs show superior corrosion resistance. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) method is applied to investigate the energetics and interaction mechanisms at each interface within the epoxy matrix.