Nanomaterial-based smart coatings for sustainable corrosion protection in harsh marine environments: Advances in environmental management and durability

Abstract

In the pursuit of sustainable solutions to combat the major threat of corrosion in marine concrete structures, the development of nanomaterial-based smart coatings represents a significant advancement in enhancing durability and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure. This review explores the emerging paradigms in the application of these innovative coatings, emphasizing their role in improving corrosion resistance in harsh marine environments. Recent innovations like polycarbazole (PCz), polycarbazole/nano clay, and polycarbazole/Zn-nanocomposites have shown remarkable corrosion inhibition performance for SS304 alloy, achieving up to 99.81 % protection in a 3.5 % NaCl solution. This review explores the latest developments in smart coatings based on various nanomaterials, synthesis techniques, and inherent advantages. Additionally, it assesses nanomaterials-based coatings’ efficacy in corrosion mitigation for metals and alloys, focusing on advancements from 2019 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 1475 research articles from Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases reveals a substantial increase in publications, underscoring the growing emphasis on practical applications and technological progress in this field. The review highlights synthesis techniques, material properties, and performance metrics of various nanomaterials, demonstrating their superiority over conventional coatings. Findings reveal a growing interest in eco-friendly, high-performance coatings that offer substantial benefits for industries such as oil and gas, marine, and transportation. By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology with practical engineering solutions, this study underscores the potential of smart coatings to address the pressing challenges of corrosion mitigation in marine concrete structures and other industrial applications.