PEDOT: PSS-exfoliated graphene to improve the corrosion resistance of waterborne epoxy coating

Abstract

In this paper, we prepared PEDOT:PSS-G composites on the basis of π-π interactions between PEDOT:PSS and graphene. It was revealed that PEDOT:PSS has been inserted into the graphene sheets and graphene sheets were peeled off into 4-5 layers by SPM analysis. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and micro-electrochemical spectrum showed the agglomerated graphene not only couldn't act as barriers, but also accelerated the corrosion reaction; while the exfoliated graphene fully exerted its barrier effect and increased the diffusion path for corroded medium. Meanwhile, the addition of PEDOT:PSS could promote the formation of passivation layers on the steel surface, and inhibited the corrosion reaction from further occurring. The two effects complemented each other to improve the corrosion resistance of the coating.