Synthesis and properties of cerium and titanium oxide thin coatings for corrosion protection of 304 stainless steel

Powders and thin coatings of ceria and titania were synthesized from aqueous and solvent-based precursors. Thin coatings were deposited on polished 304 stainless steel coupons by dipping them in the appropriate sol-gel oxide precursors. The coatings were subsequently densified and crystallized at several hundreds of degrees. It was possible to obtain dense titania coatings by applying thin coatings of cerium dioxide prior to titania on stainless steel substrates. Underlayer ceria coatings proved to be pivotal in obtaining dense titania coatings and preserving the integrity of the stainless steel while going through the high temperature treatments. The effect of processing parameters such as the atmosphere of heat-treatment, and temperature on the microstructure and crystal structure of the films and powders of ceria and titania was investigated. X-ray diffraction was used to identify the crystal structure of films and powders upon heat-treatment. Electrochemical measurements in NaCl, and analytical techniques such as SEM and EDX were used to evaluate the corrosion performance and pitting morphology of coated samples. A composite coating of ceria and titania was able to prevent crevice corrosion and increase the pitting resistance of the 304 stainless steel relative to the uncoated substrate.