Bio Inspired self-healing organic coatings for corrosion protection of marine mild steel A critical review

The marine environment presents one of the most aggressive and complex challenges to
structural materials, particularly mild steel, which remains the backbone of shipbuilding,
offshore platforms, and coastal infrastructure. Conventional protective coatings, though widely
applied, often fail under prolonged exposure to saline waters, oxygen-rich atmospheres, and
dynamic mechanical stresses. This recurring issue has motivated researchers to explore
advanced, bio-inspired strategies that not only inhibit corrosion but also enable coatings to
autonomously repair damage.
This book, Bio-Inspired Self-Healing Organic Coatings for Corrosion Protection of Marine
Mild Steel – A Critical Review, is conceived as a comprehensive synthesis of developments at
the intersection of corrosion science, organic inhibitors, biomimetic design, and smart
materials engineering. It critically examines both fundamental mechanisms and applied
technologies, ranging from lotus-leaf hydrophobicity and mussel-inspired adhesion to
microcapsule-based self-healing and stimuli-responsive release systems. By bridging academic
research with industrial practices, the work aims to provide a structured roadmap for scientists,
engineers, and policymakers engaged in marine corrosion protection.
The chapters are organized to progressively build understanding—from electrochemical
fundamentals and inhibitor chemistry to advanced testing protocols and industry case studies.
Special emphasis is placed on environmental considerations, scalability, and regulatory
frameworks, ensuring that the discussion remains relevant to both laboratory innovation and
real-world deployment. Future trends such as nanomaterials, AI-guided design, and green
chemistry are highlighted to inspire sustainable pathways for next-generation coatings.
This book is the outcome of years of engagement with corrosion science, materials engineering,
and digital workflow optimization. I am deeply indebted to my mentors, colleagues, and
research collaborators whose insights shaped the perspectives presented here. I also
acknowledge the support of academic institutions and industry partners who continue to
advance the field of protective coatings.
It is my hope that this critical review will serve as both a reference and a catalyst—encouraging
further innovation in bio-inspired self-healing coatings and contributing to the long-term
durability of marine infrastructure.