Characterization and anticorrosive properties of poly(2,3‐dimethylaniline)/TiO2 composite synthesized by emulsion polymerization

Poly(2,3‐dimethylaniline)/TiO₂ composite (PTC) was prepared by emulsion polymerization using dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid as emulsifier and dopant. The structure of PTC was characterized by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Effect of TiO₂ content on the PTC properties was studied by tafel polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, polymerization yield, and cyclic voltammetry measurements. The results showed that the anticorrosion property and electrochemical activity of PTC reached a maximum level when the content of TiO₂ was 15%. Epoxy coatings containing poly(2,3‐dimethylaniline) (P(2,3‐DMA)) and PTC, respectively, were painted on steel and accelerated electrochemical corrosion tests were performed to evaluate the anticorrosion property of the coatings in 3.5% NaCl solution. The results showed that the PTC coating had higher corrosion resistance than that of P(2,3‐DMA). POLYM. COMPOS., 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers