Russian scientists have developed a method for protecting steel from an aggressive environment

Exposure to an aggressive environment, for example, sea water, sooner or later leads to the destruction of even very durable stainless steel products. A new way to protect steel surfaces was proposed by NUST MISIS engineers with the participation of colleagues from the Czech Republic.

Scientists believe that their proposed coating will significantly improve the quality of metal structures, installed in the sea and coastal areas, as well as significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and failures equipment.

Corrosion and wear of metal is the main cause of breakdowns

In order to improve the durability of various products used in marine and coastal areas, many parts are made of corrosion-resistant steels, which contain, in addition to iron, also chromium, nickel or molybdenum.

These additives naturally (due to oxidation in air and the appearance of an oxide film) form protection against aggressive salt water. But this film can easily wear out if the part is subjected to friction. These parts include pumps, propellers, winches, gate valves, etc.

Therefore, it is necessary not only to protect the parts with the formed layer, but also to significantly increase its hardness.

New development of scientists

The engineers proposed a new coating, which made it possible to provide excellent adhesion - reliable adhesion of the coating to the part to be protected, increased hardness and significant thickness.

It was decided to use tantalum-zirconium carbide debris fixed in the metal layer. So when there is no friction, the carbide particles do not affect the corrosion film in any way.

In order to apply such a film, the scientists decided to use the method of electrospark alloying, which strongly resembles everyone's familiar welding process. And yes, this method is not new, but Russian scientists decided to carry it out in a vacuum. This made it possible to protect the material from oxidation and significantly increase the quality of the coating.

The engineers have already defended their invention with two patents, but the work is still ongoing. So, according to the plan, the scientists also give the coating water-repellent properties and, thus, completely eliminate the interaction of the metal with an aggressive environment.

This revision will allow, for example, in the future to avoid icing the hulls of ships and not only. In fact, the work of scientists is of great importance, since it will allow, without any major changes, to create products with increased wear resistance, which will greatly reduce the accident rate.

Well, it's nice to know that Russian specialists are doing such an important job. If you liked the material, please rate it and do not forget to subscribe to the channel. Thank you for your attention!