A Simple Approach to rGO Deposition on Aluminium Alloys for Corrosion and Wear Protection

Aluminum and its alloys rely on a thin native oxide film for corrosion resistance; however, in chloride-containing environments this passive layer is prone to localized breakdown and pitting corrosion. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has emerged as a promising material for aluminum corrosion protection due to its high aspect ratio, excellent impermeability, chemical and mechanical stability. When used as a coating component or nanofiller in paints rGO significantly enhances barrier properties. In this work rGO was obtained by simple reduction with L-ascorbic acid from GO solution and its direct application on commercial aluminum alloys, commonly used for structural applications, is investigated as an anti-corrosion and anti-wear coating by means of electrochemical techniques and tribology. The results support the effectiveness and suitability of such simple, inexpensive and environmentally friendly treatment, capable to enhance the stability of the surface passive layer.