Studies on Chemical Resistance of Sol-Gel Derived TiO₂-Fe₂O₃ Thin Film Coatings on Glazed Ceramic Wall Tiles

ABSTRACT

Present study reports improvement in chemical resistance of glazed wall tile by solgel derived TiO₂-Fe₂O₃ thin film coatings on the glazed surface. Effect of firing temperature on the chemical resistance of the coating was estimated after firing at different temperatures (600°, 700° and 800°C). The chemical durability of the coated substrate in comparison to the uncoated was tested against acidic attack by immersing them in 3% (v/v) hydrochloric acid solution and 10 wt% citric acid solution and basic attack by immersing them in 20 wt% potassium hydroxide solution in accordance with IS: 13630 (Part 8): 2006 standard. Further, the coated surface was also tested against basic attack in 1 N sodium hydroxide and 2.5 wt% detergent solution for seven days. The chemical durability was quantitatively estimated by measuring gloss at the surface at regular time intervals. Acid resistance was found to be good for coated substrate fired at all test temperatures. The coated substrate fired at 800°C showed high alkali resistance as compared to the uncoated substrate. FESEM and IR studies substantiate the corrosion resistance of the coated surface fired at 800°C.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Thin film coatings
• Glazed ceramic wall tiles
• Firing temperature
• Chemical resistance