Development of tri-sandwich Cu-Ni-Cr coating over weathering steel used for construction applications

Weathering steel is a (HSLA) high strength low alloy steel which constitutes elements like chromium, nickel, copper, silicon and phosphorous. The silicon and phosphorous present in weathering steel are responsible for enhancing the corrosion resistant properties. Weathering (Corten A588 Grade) steel is widely being used in the areas such as construction of towers, bridges, walls, and roofs also in several architectural applications. The continuous dry and wet cycle, prolonged contact with water, water pockets in large weathering steel structures restricts its applications. Surface modification plays a vital role in enhancing the corrosion and mechanical properties of the material. Electroplating is a deposition technique used in various industrial applications due to its cost effectiveness. In this research three-layered sandwich coating is prepared for construction application using Cu, Cr, and Ni by electrodeposition process to improve the corrosion and mechanical properties. Tri-sandwich Cu Ni Cr Coating is characterized by investigating the microhardness, EIS, SEM and EDAX, studies.