Graphene based composite could provide less toxic way of rust-proofing steel
Researchers in the US have developed a new graphene based composite for rust-proofing steel that could serve as a non toxic alternative to traditional hexavalent chromium based coatings.
In initial experiments, pieces of steel coated with the high tech varnish were said to remain rust free for an entire month when immersed continuously in brine, an environment which drastically accelerates corrosion.
The next step for the University at Buffalo researchers is to use a $50,000 grant given to them by the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute to enhance the graphene composite's lasting power, as well as the quality of its finish. Tata Steel has signed on as a sponsor of the research to help achieve this.
"Tata Steel has always displayed leadership in motivating innovative research and product development by leveraging partnerships with universities," said Debashish Bhattacharjee, group director for research, development and technology at Tata. "Buffalo has been one of our choices for cutting edge coatings technology development on steel substrate."
