Wettability and corrosion performance of arc-sprayed Fe-based amorphous coatings

Amorphous coatings (ACs) with the composition of Fe49.7Cr18Mn1.9Mo7.4W1.6B15.2C3.8Si2.4 were deposited by the arc-spraying technique. The wettability and corrosion performance of Fe-based ACs in 3.5% NaCl solution were investigated using contact angle measurements and electrochemical tests, respectively. Results showed that by controlling the spraying potential, the phase constituent, microstructure, hardness, wettability, and corrosion performance of the coatings were manipulated. With a spraying potential of 26 V, the highly glassy AC exhibited a denser microstructure, higher microhardness, lower surface free energy, and better corrosion resistance than the others. The superior corrosion resistance of the coatings was closely related to the surface hydrophobicity, which was dominantly governed by the microstructure of the coatings. This finding demonstrates the importance of a homogeneous and compact structure for anti-corrosion and provides a quick prediction of corrosion performance among ACs. •The wettability and corrosion resistance of amorphous coatings (ACs) were studied.•The surface wettability of ACs was quantified via the contact angle tests.•This work provided a quick prediction of corrosion performance among ACs.