WANA (Mar 02) – Iranian researchers have successfully developed an innovative smart coating to protect magnesium alloys from corrosion, a breakthrough that can significantly reduce aircraft weight and fuel consumption.

 

Lightweight but Vulnerable

Magnesium alloys are widely used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronic industries due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. However, their extreme susceptibility to corrosion has long posed a challenge, particularly in demanding flight conditions. Iranian specialists have now tackled this issue by applying nano-composite smart coatings that effectively prevent corrosion.

 

The project, titled “Corrosion Protection of Magnesium Alloys Using Smart Nano-Composite Coatings,” won third place in the Fundamental Research category at the Khwarizmi Youth Festival and was also recognized by the Asia-Pacific Technology Transfer Center.

 

A First for Iran

This is the first time such a product has been developed domestically. Previously, conventional methods relied solely on single-layer coatings, which, when compromised, could accelerate corrosion rather than prevent it.

 

Project lead Roghayeh Samadian-Fard emphasized the significance of the innovation: “A major challenge with magnesium alloys is their low resistance to corrosion, especially in acidic rain or harsh environmental conditions. My goal was to address this issue to expand its industrial applications, as maintenance and repair costs for such equipment run into billions of dollars annually. Our product extends the lifespan of these materials, drastically cutting costs.”

 

Smart Corrosion Detection

Samadian-Fard highlighted the intelligent functionality of the coating, explaining that it actively prevents corrosive agents from reaching the metal surface. If the coating sustains scratches or cracks due to temperature changes or mechanical stress, it automatically detects the affected area and releases corrosion inhibitors to repair and halt further damage.

 

“I chemically stabilized corrosion inhibitors on nano-carriers,” she elaborated. “Once corrosion starts, the bond between the inhibitors and the carriers breaks, allowing them to be rapidly absorbed into the damaged area, stopping the process entirely.”

 

Call for Commercialization

Samadian-Fard acknowledged the support from Iran’s National Nanotechnology Initiative and the National Science Foundation but urged the government, including the president, to assist in commercializing the technology.

 

“One of my main concerns is commercializing this product. If properly supported, we can transform this cutting-edge technology into a market-ready product, preventing the outflow of foreign currency and strengthening domestic industries.”

 

This breakthrough could position Iran at the forefront of advanced material technology while offering significant benefits to the aviation and other high-tech industries.