Leveraging colloid and interface science for long-term marine performance of hybrid coatings: Effects of different nanoparticles on anticorrosion and antifouling properties

This study leveraged the unique colloidal and interfacial properties of synthesized SiO2, ZnO, and carbon (CN) nanoparticles as effective nanofillers to enhance the anti-corrosion and antifouling properties of PMMA coatings. By optimizing nanoparticle dispersion, stability, and functional performance within the polymer matrix, we achieved improved surface roughness, hydrophobicity, mechanical stability, and antimicrobial properties. Hybrid coatings containing 1.5 wt% of these nanoparticles were applied to stainless steel (SS) substrates and evaluated through water contact angle measurements, pull-off adhesion strength tests, antibacterial assays, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results demonstrate that the synergistic effects of SiO2, ZnO, and CN nanoparticles significantly enhance the coatings' anticorrosion and antifouling characteristics by increasing hydrophobicity, total impedance, and antibacterial activity via reactive oxygen species generated by ZnO and CN. Additionally, over two years, the coating's long-term protection was assessed by submerging coupons at a 6-meter depth in the Bocana Chica reef barrier, a site with rapid biofouling colonization, making this test a demanding evaluation.