Corrosion Resistance of ALD Al₂O₃ Coatings on 310S Stainless Steel for Fencing Applications in Tropical Forest Environments

Li Zhan and Yanli Jiang

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64486/m.66.1.5
Online publication date: May 22, 2026

Abstract: This study investigates the corrosion protection of 310S stainless steel by Al₂O₃ coatings prepared using an ozone-assisted atomic layer deposition (ALD) process. A dense and uniform Al₂O₃ coating with a thickness of approximately 150 nm was deposited on the steel surface. The coating morphology, phase composition, adhesion, high-temperature oxidation resistance, and corrosion behavior were evaluated using SEM/EDS, AFM, XRD, Vickers indentation, immersion tests, and electrochemical measurements. The results show that the ALD Al₂O₃ coating effectively covers surface defects, exhibits good adhesion to the substrate, and significantly improves corrosion resistance in chloride-containing and acidic media. The coated sample also maintains structural integrity after oxidation at 800 °C, indicating improved high-temperature stability and reduced chromium outward diffusion. These results demonstrate that ozone-assisted ALD Al₂O₃ coating is a promising surface protection method for 310S stainless steel used in outdoor fencing and ecological protection applications.

Keywords: outdoor fencing; 310S stainless steel; Al₂O₃ coating; atomic layer deposition; corrosion resistance

This article is published online first and will appear in Metalurgija, Vol. 66, Issue 1 (2027).