Understanding the multifaceted incorporation of a Zn-maize cob nanoparticle composite coating of mild steel: anti-wear, anti-corrosion, and oxidation resistance

Zinc coating is one of the oldest types of coating for mild steel. The main drawback of zinc coating is that the steel loses its zinc ion after being exposed to environmental factors, leaving mild steel vulnerable to corrosion. Researchers have been working hard to create a zinc-based coating using co-deposition with agricultural waste. The outcome of this co-deposition is increased wear resistance, increased hardness, improved oxidation stability, and improved corrosion resistance. This work aims to enhance the oxidation, wear, and corrosion resistance of mild steel by co-deposition of zinc and maize cob ash nanoparticles. 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt% maize cob ash nanoparticles were used in the production of the coating. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the materials' microstructure. The resulting coated samples' hardness, wear, oxidation, and corrosion properties were examined. The hardness parameters increased by 74.89% and the protection against corrosion by 76.6%. It has been shown that mild steel may have its corrosion, wear, and oxidation resistance increased by using 15 wt% maize cob ash particles.