Corrosion Protection Mechanisms of Polymer Coatings

Corrosion remains one of the most significant challenges in materials science and engineering, causing substantial economic losses and compromising the safety, functionality, and durability of metal-based structures. The degradation of metallic materials due to electrochemical reactions with their surrounding environment leads to the deterioration of physical and mechanical properties, resulting in costly maintenance, repair, and replacement operations. According to global estimates, corrosion-related damages account for 3–4% of a country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), underscoring the importance of effective corrosion prevention strategies. Among the diverse methods available, polymer coatings have emerged as one of the most efficient, versatile, and economically viable solutions for protecting metals from corrosive environments.