Hybrid protective coatings for construction steel bars

A hybrid‐based coating is proposed for its performance against accelerated corrosion of steel bars used for concrete reinforcement. The innovative, hybrid nano‐modified character of the coating is applied during steel's welding process (at around 400°C) ensuring durability and adhesion to the steel bars while energy saving is a necessary feature. With the intention of comparing product sustainability, both water‐based and organic solvent based polymeric matrix was used. Formulations were designed according to the final desired performance of the coating's behaviour and anti‐corrosion properties. For all the above complex formulations, an ultrasonic mixing method was applied, and all coatings have been sprayed. Final performance of coated steel was tested after exposing samples in salt mist, using sodium chloride solution (3.0% w/w) for 7 days. Detailed imaging modalities for metallic surfaces have been performed after testing samples under Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).