Preparation of non‐chromium polymer films on zinc for corrosion protection due to a compound effect between silane and cerium salt

The purpose of this paper is to study the compound effect between silane and cerium salts in the passivation process of chemical conversion treatment of zinc.

Chemical conversion treatment using 3‐Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane on zinc is investigated as an alternative treatment to chromate conversion. The surface chemistry of the silane‐treated samples is investigated with mass change measurements, polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and the salt spray tests (SST). The surface morphology of samples was studied using a scanning electron microscope.

The polarization curves, EIS and SST data are in agreement. On the surface of zinc, the silane formed a compound with the cerium, thus enhancing the adhesion and corrosion resistance of the polymer film.

There have been few reports on the compound effects of silanes and cerium salts in the passivation process. The mechanism of this compound effect may be due to the ability of Ce^3 +ions to gain access to the interface through tiny cracks or micropores in the cross‐linking structure of GPS polymer films on zinc, and the subsequent oxidation of Ce^3 +to Ce^4 +by H₂O₂ may result in a barrier effect between the electrolyte and the metallic substrate.