Célia Regina Tomachuk

Electrochemical characterization of chromate free conversion coatings on electrogalvanized steel

The chromate conversion treatment is widely used, but it requires highly toxic chromic acid solutions with the consequent effluent disposal and ecological problems. The removal of these toxic chemicals is considered a priority within European Union. The corrosion resistance of three alternative treatments applied on electrogalvanised steel, and immersed in aerated 0.3 M Na2SO4 solution, pH 10, at 25 °C, was investigated using electrochemical techniques. Their performance was compared with the obtained using the traditional Cr6+-based treatment in the same conditions. The achieved results show that the alternative coatings exhibited discrete protective properties in the sulphate solution. The nitro-cobalt chemical conversion treatment showed similar protective properties than the traditional Cr6+-based treatment, while with the Cr3+-based treatment those were very poor. The phosphate treatment initially performed acceptably but as the time elapsed, its protective properties decreased.

Hydrothermal Surface Treatments with Cerium and Glycol Molecules on the AA 2024-T3 Clad Alloy

New treatments for replacement of chromate require lower toxicity and corrosion protection. This study aims to investigate the influence of the combination of a Ce conversion coating (CCCe) with glycol molecules on the corrosion resistance of the AA2024-T3 clad (AA1230). The corrosion resistance of surface treated and untreated samples was evaluated by electrochemical techniques (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, polarization tests and open circuit potential). These tests were complemented by salt spray tests to accelerate the corrosive effects of weathering. The surfaces were analyzed after corrosion tests by scanning electron microscopy with X-ray energy dispersive detector (SEM - EDX). The results of the CCCe samples in combination with glycol were compared with that of the surface with chromate layer and the results showed that the CCCe treatment is a candidate for replacement of chromating with the advantage that it does not generate toxic residues. The self-healing capacity of the new treatment tested was indicated by the increased formation of corrosion products deposition on top of Fe rich intermetallis in the AA1230 clad with time of exposure to the electrolyte.

Characterization and corrosion resistance of galvanized steel/passivation composite/ polyurethane paint systems

Fil: Di Sarli, A. R.. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas. Centro Cientifico Tecnologico la Plata. Centro de Investigacion y Desarrollo En Tecnologia de Pinturas (i); Argentina. Provincia de Buenos Aires. Gobernacion. Comision de Investigaciones Cientificas; Argentina