The Effect of Surface Properties Created by Industrial Pickling on Paint Adhesion Resistance and Corrosion Performance

This study investigated the effects of surface defects, known as acid burns and stop marks, formed during industrial pickling processes on the paint adhesion performance and corrosion resistance of a low-carbon steel sheet. These properties of optimally pickled, heavily pickled, and stop mark-formed surfaces were evaluated comparatively using a post-painting adhesion test (EN ISO 2409:2020) and salt spray (ASTM B117-19) tests. Findings from studies conducted within the industrial pickling range revealed satisfactory paint adhesion (Grade 0) and corrosion resistance (Grade 10) for optimally pickled and heavily pickled surfaces. The stop mark-formed surfaces exhibited excellent paint adhesion, but a slight decrease in corrosion resistance (Grade 9 after 72 hours) was observed. To more accurately assess the impact of these defects, additional tests should be conducted under more challenging and prolonged stop conditions, supported by advanced surface analysis techniques.