Flower-like ZnO-loaded graphene oxide for enhancing anti-wear ability of epoxy coating

ZnO-loaded graphene oxide (GO@ZnO) heterostructure was synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal method and incorporated as nanofillers into water-borne epoxy coatings (EP). Incorporating 1.0 wt% GO@ZnO, identified as the optimal loading, significantly enhances the UV resistance of EP and reduces the wear rate by 82.0 % compared to pure epoxy. The tribological improvement stems from synergistic effects between GO and ZnO, validated by DFT calculations showing strong interfacial interaction. Moreover, the well-dispersed GO@ZnO heterostructure enhances stability and load-bearing capacity of composite coating. This work advances heterostructure nano-composites design for practical protective applications.