Resistometric sensors for real-time corrosion monitoring of coated metals
Universidade de Lisboa researchers have utilized highly sensitive resistometric sensors for real-time, quantitative monitoring of corrosion in coated carbon steel. This research demonstrates an effective method for evaluating coating performance and degradation mechanisms under various atmospheric and immersion conditions, providing a valuable alternative to traditional electrochemical testing methods for both laboratory and industrial applications.
Overview
Researchers at Universidade de Lisboa have demonstrated the use of highly sensitive resistometric sensors for the real-time monitoring of corrosion in coated carbon steel. This research provides a method to evaluate the protective performance of organic coatings, such as polyolefin, under various environmental conditions, including both static and dynamic atmospheric exposure and immersion. By offering continuous and quantitative corrosion rate data, this technology serves as an effective alternative to traditional analytical methods like electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), helping to better understand degradation mechanisms in laboratory and industrial settings.
Technical specifications
The monitoring approach utilizes sensors consisting of a thin metal track on a non-conductive substrate. The electrical resistance of these tracks changes as corrosion occurs, allowing for real-time tracking of material degradation. Key capabilities and findings include:
- Continuous, real-time assessment of corrosion rates.
- Proven compatibility with static, dynamic atmospheric, and immersion conditions.
- Demonstrable sensitivity to coating thickness variations (e.g., 20 µm to 50 µm) and the addition of corrosion inhibitors like 1wt.% tannic acid.
- Identification of critical environmental conditions, such as the drying stage in chloride-rich environments at 50% relative humidity, where corrosion rates are highest.
- Flexibility in design, allowing for the use of various metals (e.g., steel, zinc, aluminum, copper) depending on the application.
Technology readiness level
The technology is assessed at TRL 4-5. The researchers have validated the application of these sensors through laboratory testing and comparative analysis against conventional electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods. While the sensors themselves are used in commercial monitoring systems, the specific research application for evaluating coated materials is a...
About Universidade de Lisboa
Universidade de Lisboa is a comprehensive public research university in Portugal’s capital, uniting multiple schools and institutes with broad disciplinary coverage. Industry engages through co-located labs, shared core facilities, and campuses linked to research parks and Lisbon’s startup ecosystem. Integration with the university hospital network enables clinical research and translation, while experimental farms and field stations provide real-world testbeds. Research is supported by competitive European and national funding, including the European Commission and Portugal’s Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT). A dedicated technology transfer office and incubation programs assist with IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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