Cerium based thin film coatings for press hardening applications
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea KIMAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | October 2014 - June 2015 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The aim was to develop a thin film coating based on Cerium oxide with high thermal stability and good corrosion properties. A coating based on a CeO dispersion containing metallic particles, Al or AlSi was developed. Preliminary studies indicate that the coating resist the high temperatures required in the press hardening process and also improve the corrosion resistance of the steel in aqueous environments.
Results and expected effects
The coating developed in the project consists of thin composite coating containing cerium oxide and metal particles, such as Al and AlSi. Studies indicate that the coating resist the high temperatures requited in the press hardening process. The resulting coatings have good adherence after heat treatment and show improved electrochemical corrosion properties compared to a commercial AlSi coating. Further optimization of the coating is needed before industrial trails can be performed.
Approach and implementation
Initial coatings were based on dispersions of cerium oxide nanoparticles were applied by dip coating on boron steel and mild steel surfaces. The performance of the coatings was examined during high temperature testing, cyclic corrosion testing and stack test. In order to decrease porosity and increase oxidation and corrosion resistance formulations based on dispersions of ceria with metallic particles. Corrosion resistance of these coatings was evaluated with electrochemical measurements.