Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection

A special issue of Coatings (ISSN 2079-6412). This special issue belongs to the section "Surface Characterization, Deposition and Modification".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 July 2025 | Viewed by 7081

Special Issue Editors


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Sustainable Magnets and Recycling Group, Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials (Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung GmbH), Max-Planck-Straße 1, 40237 Düsseldorf, Germany
Interests: cryogenics; magnetism-based characterization of metals and alloys; sustainable metallurgy and materials; hydrogen plasma-based reduction and hydrogen-based direct reduction of oxides and ores; thermal pro-cessing of alloys and implications on microstructure, surface and properties
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Surface Science for Future Materials Group, Department of Interface Chemistry and Surface Engineering, Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung GmbH (MPIE), Max-Planck-Str. 1, D-40237 Düsseldorf, Germany
Interests: modified metallic surfaces; mechanical properties; microstructure; isotope analysis; wear; oxidation of metallic surfaces; corrosion; chemical characterization of surfaces
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Bánki Donát Faculty of Mechanical and Safety Engineering, Institute of Materials and Manufacturing Sciences, Óbuda University, Népszínház u.8., 1081 Budapest, Hungary
Interests: heat treatment; metallic materials; material sciences; mechanical properties; microstructure; wear; surface properties; coatings; biomaterials; corrosion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Different types of coatings and metal surfaces are a broad material group that impacts many aspects of everyday life. Due to their unique combination of properties, metallic surfaces, and organic/inorganic/self-healing coatings, which are used in various industries as protective elements (mechanical and corrosive), catalyzing media, optical materials, substrates, electrical conductors, magnetic media, biomaterials, etc. However, their applicability is often limited and plagued by degradation, which is a key factor for long-lasting material usage from both economic and sustainability perspectives. Degradation is a crude label for the deterioration of the material and/or its properties in exposed environments and/or conditions, ranging from static and dynamic mechanical loading to corrosive media and biological factors down to cyclic grinding and surface interaction with other materials. As such, it is vital to understand how the individual properties of the used metal coatings and metallic surfaces temporally evolve and are modified within their used environments and conditions.

For this reason, we are launching a new Special Issue in MDPI’s journal Coatings that aims to collect original research articles and review papers on the degradation of coatings and modified metallic surfaces. Contributions should focus on the fundamental characterization and understanding of the degradation processes under specific conditions, which are relevant for applying selected coatings/a modified surface. Both theoretical and experimental papers, as well as papers combining both aspects, are welcomed.

We look forward to receiving your contribution.

Dr. Matic Jovičević-Klug
Dr. Patricia Jovičević-Klug
Dr. László Tóth
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Coatings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • organic and inorganic coatings
  • self-healing coatings
  • modified metallic surfaces
  • degradation
  • mechanical failure
  • delamination
  • corrosion
  • biocorrosion
  • tribology
  • wear

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 5805 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Warionia saharea Essential Oil as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in HCl: Experimental and Computational Studies
by Abdeslam Ansari, Youssef Youssefi, Mohamed Tanghourte, Nazih Ouassou, Nazih Asoufar, Mohamed Znini, Hassane Lgaz, El Houssine Mabrouk, Mohamed Azrour, Han-Seung Lee and Belkheir Hammouti
Coatings 2024, 14(9), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14091164 - 9 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 804
Abstract
The objective of this research work is the study of the inhibitory effect of Warionia saharea essential oil (WSEO) on the corrosion of mild steel (MS) in molar HCl solution, employing both experimental and theoretical methods. This inhibitory effect (IE) has been evaluated [...] Read more.
The objective of this research work is the study of the inhibitory effect of Warionia saharea essential oil (WSEO) on the corrosion of mild steel (MS) in molar HCl solution, employing both experimental and theoretical methods. This inhibitory effect (IE) has been evaluated by using a combination of weight loss measurements (LW) and various electrochemical methods, such as open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiments. The LW results indicated that IE increased with inhibitor concentration, reaching 83.34% at 3.00 g/L. The PDP analysis suggested that WSEO functions as a mixed inhibitor, while in the EIS results the Rct values increased with inhibitor concentration to reach 165.8 Ω cm2 at 2.00 g/L, suggesting a defensive film formation by WSEO molecules over the metallic surface. The thermodynamic study demonstrated that the WSEO molecules adsorption on the MS surface followed a Langmuir isotherm, involving mixed physical and chemical (physicochemical) adsorption on the MS surface. Theoretical methods, including density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, were employed to elucidate the inhibition mechanisms of the three main components of WSEO. The quantum chemical analysis, using density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, showed a low ΔEgap value of 6.30 eV and a low adsorption energy (Eads) value on an Fe (110) substrate of −258 Kcal/mol for (E)-Nerolidol, indicating the significant contribution of this molecule to the overall corrosion inhibition effect of WSEO. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis verified the presence of a protective film formed by the inhibitor on the MS surface. This study highlights the potential of WSEO as a sustainable and green corrosion inhibitor in acidic environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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15 pages, 6565 KiB  
Article
Research on the Measurement and Estimation Method of Wheel Resistance on a Soil Runway
by Zihan Wang, Xiaolei Chong, Guanhu Wang, Chaojia Liu and Jichao Zhang
Coatings 2024, 14(8), 1062; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14081062 - 19 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 677
Abstract
In view of the fact that there is no suitable measurement method for tire driving resistance during the operation of a transporter on soil pavement, this paper proposes a simple measurement and estimation method for driving resistance on a soil runway based on [...] Read more.
In view of the fact that there is no suitable measurement method for tire driving resistance during the operation of a transporter on soil pavement, this paper proposes a simple measurement and estimation method for driving resistance on a soil runway based on the Bekker settlement model. In this paper, using the driving resistance equation based on the Bekker model, a simplified equation of driving resistance related to mass is proposed. Using the principle of kinematics, a simple test device for driving resistance was developed, and the test data of the test device were used to determine the parameters of the driving resistance estimation equation of the road surface. The driving resistance of the wheel running state was tested by the simulated aircraft load loading vehicle through the mechanical sensor, and the consistency between the theoretical value and the actual value of the driving resistance value under 8T, 10T, and 12T loads was verified. This research shows that the test method and estimation method have low cost and good accuracy and are suitable for wide promotion. The results of this paper provide a new idea and method for estimating the driving resistance of a wheel when a transporter runs on a soil road and also provide a reference for designing the length of a soil runway. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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14 pages, 5248 KiB  
Article
Research on Drag Reduction by Coating the Inner Wall of Hydraulic Pipeline
by Xue Wang, Junjie Zhou, Wenbo Liao and Shihua Yuan
Coatings 2024, 14(7), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14070802 - 27 Jun 2024
Viewed by 832
Abstract
This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the effect of wall roughness on linear loss in circular pipelines. It specifically addresses hemispherical roughness, focusing on how changes in spacing influence linear loss, a critical determinant of fluid motion within pipelines. [...] Read more.
This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the effect of wall roughness on linear loss in circular pipelines. It specifically addresses hemispherical roughness, focusing on how changes in spacing influence linear loss, a critical determinant of fluid motion within pipelines. The simulations further assess the impact of these variables on flow characteristics, laying a theoretical groundwork for drag reduction and pipeline design improvement. Results indicate that increased spacing between roughness elements reduces the differential pressure at both pipeline ends. The dimensionless spacing value of 30 stabilizes this pressure, suggesting a limit to further changes. Additionally, a rise in roughness height at this spacing exacerbates differential pressure, highlighting a proportional relationship between roughness dimensions and linear loss—greater roughness leads to higher linear loss. Applying a nickel-plated coating on the inner wall significantly lowers roughness, thereby reducing linear loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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17 pages, 10384 KiB  
Article
In Situ Thermal Interactions of Cu-Based Anti-Corrosion Coatings on Steel Implemented by Surface Alloying
by Huda Hanif Khan, Tong Wang, Lihong Su, Huijun Li, Qiang Zhu, Ana Yang, Zigang Li, Wei Wang and Hongtao Zhu
Coatings 2024, 14(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14060722 - 5 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1176
Abstract
Incorporating expensive alloying elements into bulk steel for corrosion protection is undesirable, considering that only the surfaces are exposed to aggressive environments. Therefore, this work focused on developing and optimizing a new surface functioning technology through in situ observation of thermal interactions between [...] Read more.
Incorporating expensive alloying elements into bulk steel for corrosion protection is undesirable, considering that only the surfaces are exposed to aggressive environments. Therefore, this work focused on developing and optimizing a new surface functioning technology through in situ observation of thermal interactions between the metallic powders at elevated temperatures. The study revealed that the Cu-Ni powder mixture, with 12.5 wt% Ni, began to melt at 1099.5 °C and was fully melted at 1175 °C, significantly different from the Cu-Ni solid solution and bulk Cu or Ni. As a result of high-temperature reactions, copper penetration of up to 35 µm for pure copper and 55 µm for copper-chromium composite coatings occurred due to liquid metal corrosion. In contrast, the copper-nickel composite coating exhibited a cupronickel solution microstructure with FeNi dendrites and a nickel-rich transition layer. This cupronickel coating, with a chemical composition of 89.3 wt% Cu, 6.2 wt% Ni, and 4.5 wt% Fe, demonstrated uniform thickness, superior surface morphology, and continuous coverage on the steel substrate. Furthermore, the Ni-rich transition layer played a vital role in preventing copper penetration along the grain boundary of the steel matrix while forming a chemical binding between the coating and the substrate. The practicality of the coating was further confirmed through the hot-rolling procedure and subsequent electrochemical corrosion tests, which resulted in a 44% improvement in corrosion resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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13 pages, 12036 KiB  
Article
Microstructure, Hardness, Wear Resistance, and Corrosion Resistance of As-Cast and Laser-Deposited FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 High Entropy Alloy
by Xiaohu Ji, Lihua Zhou and Heng Li
Coatings 2024, 14(6), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14060663 - 24 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 729
Abstract
FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 high-entropy alloys were fabricated using vacuum induction melting and laser deposition processes, followed by a comparison of the structural and mechanical properties of two distinct sample types. The as-cast FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 alloy is comprised of BCC1, BCC2, and Cr3Si phases, while the laser-deposited [...] Read more.
FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 high-entropy alloys were fabricated using vacuum induction melting and laser deposition processes, followed by a comparison of the structural and mechanical properties of two distinct sample types. The as-cast FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 alloy is comprised of BCC1, BCC2, and Cr3Si phases, while the laser-deposited alloy primarily features BCC1 and BCC2 phases. Microstructural analysis revealed that the as-cast alloy exhibits a dendritic morphology with secondary dendritic arms and densely packed grains, and the laser-deposited alloy displays a dendritic structure without the formation of granular interdendritic regions. For mechanical properties, the as-cast FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 alloy demonstrated higher hardness than the as-deposited alloy, with values of 586 HV0.2 and 557 HV0.2, respectively. The wear rate for the as-cast alloy was observed at 3.5 × 10−7 mm3/Nm, with abrasive wear being the primary wear mechanism. Conversely, the as-deposited alloy had a wear rate of 9.0 × 10−7 mm3/Nm, characterized by adhesive wear. The cast alloy exhibited an icorr of 4.062 μA·cm−2, with pitting as the form of corrosion. The laser-deposited alloy showed an icorr of 3.621 μA·cm−2, with both pitting and intergranular corrosion observed. The laser-deposited alloy demonstrated improved corrosion resistance. The investigation of their microstructure and mechanical properties demonstrates the application potential of FeCoNiCrAl0.8Cu0.5Si0.5 alloys in scenarios requiring high hardness and enhanced wear resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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13 pages, 6356 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Resin Interleafing on the Wedge Peel Strength of CF/PEEK Manufactured by Laser-Assisted In Situ Consolidation
by Ruozhou Wang, Entao Xu and Liwei Wen
Coatings 2024, 14(5), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14050635 - 17 May 2024
Viewed by 1187
Abstract
In this work, a novel approach involving coating fine PEEK powder on prepreg is introduced to improve wedge peel strength and reduce interlaminar voids. CF/PEEK laminates with resin interleaving are in situ consolidated by laser-assisted fiber placement. The morphology of the powdered surface [...] Read more.
In this work, a novel approach involving coating fine PEEK powder on prepreg is introduced to improve wedge peel strength and reduce interlaminar voids. CF/PEEK laminates with resin interleaving are in situ consolidated by laser-assisted fiber placement. The morphology of the powdered surface is obtained using an optical profilometer, and the surface roughness and volume of added resin are calculated accordingly. Interface and surface temperature are measured during the layup process. Thermal history indicates that very short bonding time is the dominating factor for voids and limited interlayer strength. Laminate porosity and microscopic features are characterized with an optical microscope. The porosity of resin-interleaved laminates decreases to 3.7%, while the resin content only increases by 4.5% in the meantime. This is because interlayer resin particles rapidly melt under laser heating and quickly fill the voids between layers. The wedge peel strength of resin-interleaved laminates can increase by 30.1% without a repass treatment. This could be attributed to the increase in resin intimate contact and reduction in interlayer voids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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18 pages, 10972 KiB  
Article
Optimization and Mechanism Study of Bonding Properties of CFRP/Al7075 Single-Lap Joints by Low-Temperature Plasma Surface Treatment
by Liwei Wen, Ruozhou Wang and Entao Xu
Coatings 2024, 14(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14050541 - 26 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1070
Abstract
This paper studied favorable low-temperature plasma (LTP) surface treatment modes for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)/Al7075 single-lap joints using complex experimental methods and analyzed the failure modes of the joints. The surface physicochemical properties of CFRP after LTP surface treatment were characterized using [...] Read more.
This paper studied favorable low-temperature plasma (LTP) surface treatment modes for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)/Al7075 single-lap joints using complex experimental methods and analyzed the failure modes of the joints. The surface physicochemical properties of CFRP after LTP surface treatment were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle tests, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The influence mechanism of LTP surface treatment on the bonding properties of CFRP/Al7075 single-lap Joint was studied. The results of the complex experiment and range analysis showed that the favorable LTP surface treatment parameters were a speed of 10 mm/s, a distance of 10 mm, and three repeat scans. At these parameters, the shear strength of the joints reached 30.76 MPa, a 102.8% improvement compared to the untreated group. The failure mode of the joints shifted from interface failure to substrate failure. After low-temperature plasma surface treatment with favorable parameters, the CFRP surface exhibited gully like textures, which enhanced the mechanical interlocking between the CFRP surface and the adhesive. Additionally, the surface free energy of CFRP significantly increased, reaching a maximum of 78.77 mJ/m2. XPS results demonstrated that the low-temperature plasma surface treatment led to a significant increase in the content of oxygen-containing functional groups, such as C-O, C=O, and O-C=O, on the CFRP surface. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Science of Degradation and Surface Protection)
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