Clay could stop corrosion in its tracks

Oct. 21, 2004
Ohio State University engineers are developing paint that may eliminate corrosion.

The paint contains tiny particles of clay to capture chemicals that cause corrosion, releasing just the right amount of a corrosion-fighting agent when needed, says Rudolph Buchheit, professor of materials science and engineering.

The paint pigment contains the rare-earth-element cerium, one of several natural anti-corrosion minerals. The new pigment absorbs chloride and releases cerium to form a protective film over cracks in the paint. Cerium is also an ingredient of coatings inside self-cleaning ovens. However, ordinarily the coatings are passive, releasing the element continuously until gone. Scientists have been trying to create "smart pigments" that can do more. "The challenge is how to keep these rare-earth elements stored in paint and then release them on demand, just when conditions are right for corrosion," says Buchheit.

OSU engineers are still working on the pigment, which is not ready for commercialization. Also, the pigment should work with any corrosion inhibitor. Testing is currently underway with molybdenum and vanadium.

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