Effect of Epoxy-Bamboo Composite Coating on Medium Carbon Steel for Corrosion Control in Seawater

The degradation of medium carbon steel in marine environments is a pervasive issue,
resulting in significant economic and environmental costs. The constant exposure to sea
water leads to the formation of rust, which can cause structural damage, reduce the lifespan
of steel structures, and increase maintenance costs. This study investigates the efficacy of
epoxy-bamboo composite coatings in mitigating corrosion of medium carbon steel in
seawater, using weight loss measurements as the method of evaluation.
The coatings were synthesized by incorporating bamboo fibers into an epoxy matrix, and
their corrosion resistance was evaluated by immersing coated steel specimens in sea water
for varying periods. The weight loss of the specimens was measured at regular intervals, and
the results were used to calculate the corrosion rate.
The results reveal that the epoxy-bamboo composite coatings exhibit superior corrosion
resistance compared to uncoated and the epoxy coated steel, with a significant reduction in
weight loss and corrosion rate. The incorporation of bamboo fibers into the epoxy matrix
enhances the coating's barrier properties, while the epoxy resin provides a robust and
adhesive bond to the steel substrate. The coatings also demonstrate excellent adhesion,
flexibility, and impact resistance, making them suitable for application in harsh marine
environments.
The study also investigates the effects of varying bamboo fiber loading on the corrosion
resistance of the epoxy-bamboo composite coatings. The results show that optimal corrosion
resistance is achieved at a bamboo fiber loading of 20 wt%. The study also examines the
long-term durability of the coatings, with exposure to sea water for up to 84 days.
This research demonstrates the potential of epoxy-bamboo composite coatings as a
sustainable and effective solution for corrosion prevention in marine environments, offering
promising applications in the protection of offshore platforms, ships, and other steel
structures exposed to seawater. The findings of this study contribute to the development of
innovative, eco-friendly, and cost-effective corrosion prevention strategies, aligning with the
growing demand for sustainable solutions in the maritime industry.