A Comprehensive Review on Surface-Engineered Montmorillonite and Layered Double Hydroxides as Smart Nanocarriers for Active Corrosion Protection in Polymer Coatings

Edraki, Milad; Banimahd Keivani, Mohammad

doi:10.66437/JNS.2511.1019.1.3.5

A Comprehensive Review on Surface-Engineered Montmorillonite and Layered Double Hydroxides as Smart Nanocarriers for Active Corrosion Protection in Polymer Coatings

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Milad Edraki ¹

Mohammad Banimahd Keivani ²

¹ Department of Chemical and Polymer Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, P.O. Box 19585-466 Iran

² Department of Chimestry, Payame Noor University (PNU), P.O.Box 19395-4697, Tehran, Iran

10.66437/JNS.2511.1019.1.3.5

Abstract

Advancements in corrosion science increasingly leverage nanoarchitecture materials to develop multifunctional protective coatings. This review highlights the efficacy of engineered nanoclays specifically montmorillonite (MMT) and layered double hydroxides (LDHs) as intelligent host materials for eco-friendly inhibitors within polymer matrices. Their unique layered structures, when surface-functionalized with organic modifiers, achieve two critical objectives. First, they facilitate excellent dispersion, forming an impermeable nanoscale labyrinth that physically blocks corrosive agents such as water, oxygen, and chloride ions. Second, the modified interfaces act as selective gateways, enabling controlled, on-demand release of encapsulated inhibitors such as plant extracts or cerium cations triggered by local corrosion stimuli like pH changes or chloride ions. This responsive action delivers autonomous self-repair at defect sites, effectively halting corrosion propagation. The resulting nanocomposites exhibit synergistic enhancements in long-term barrier performance, mechanical strength, adhesion, and thermal stability. Furthermore, many systems demonstrate potent antimicrobial activity. This integrated approach offers a robust, durable, and sustainable alternative to traditional toxic inhibitor systems, significantly extending the service life of industrial infrastructure.

Keywords

Smart Nanocontainers

Self-healing Coatings

Montmorillonite Clay

Layered Double Hydroxides

Green Corrosion Inhibitor