Hydrogen Permeation Resistance of PVDF–Graphene Nanocomposite Coatings for Metallic Pipelines

Hydrogen-induced steel embrittlement imposes a technical difficulty in facilitating effective and safe hydrogen transportation via pipelines. This investigative study assesses the potency of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)–graphene-based composite coatings in the inhibition of hydrogen permeation. Spin coating was the method selected for this study, and varying graphene concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1wt% were selected and applied to 306 stainless steel substrates. A membrane permeation cell was used in the evaluation of hydrogen permeability, while the impact of graphene loading on coating performance was analyzed using the response surface methodology (RSM). The outcomes showed an inversely proportional relationship between the graphene concentration and hydrogen ingress. The permeation coefficient for pure PVDF was recorded as 16.74, which decreased to 14.23, 12.10, and 11.46 for 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0 wt% PVDF-G, respectively, with the maximum reduction of 31.6% observed at 1.0 wt%. ANOVA established statistical significance, along with indications of strong projection dependability. However, the inhibition reduction stabilized with increasing graphene concentrations, likely caused by nanoparticle agglomeration. The results support the notion of PVDF–graphene’s potential as a suitable coating for the transformation of pipelines for hydrogen transport infrastructure. This research will aid in the establishment of suitable contemporary barrier coating materials, which will enable the safe utilization of hydrogen energy in the current energy transportation grid.