1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:

The study synthesized epoxy coatings with PANI, Ag, and ZnO nanoparticles using mechanical mixing and sonication. Techniques included ATR-IR for composition confirmation, FE-SEM for morphology, DSC for thermal analysis, nano-indentation for mechanical properties, and EIS for corrosion resistance.

2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:

Four coating samples (S1-S4) with varying percentages of Ag and ZnO nanoparticles (0.2% Ag, 0.4% Ag, 0.2% Ag + 0.2% ZnO, 0.4% Ag + 0.4% ZnO) were fabricated. Data were collected from laboratory measurements on coated steel coupons immersed in 3.5% NaCl solution.

3：2% Ag, 4% Ag, 2% Ag + 2% ZnO, 4% Ag + 4% ZnO) were fabricated. Data were collected from laboratory measurements on coated steel coupons immersed in 5% NaCl solution. List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:

3. List of Experimental Equipment and Materials: Epoxy resin (DGEBA), hardener (D-3282), PANI, Ag nanoparticles, ZnO nanoparticles (purchased from Sigma-Aldrich), silane, acetone, mechanical stirrer, sonicator, ATR-IR spectrometer, FE-SEM (JEOL model JSM7600 F), DSC (TA Instrument SDT Q-600), nano-indentation tester (Micro Materials platform with Berkovich indenter), EIS setup (Autolab Ecochemie PGSTAT 30 with three-electrode cell).

4：Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:

Nanoparticles were dispersed in acetone-silane solution, mixed with epoxy/PANI, sonicated, stabilized, hardener added, coated on substrates, and cured. Characterizations were performed after curing and immersion in NaCl solution for specified periods.

5：Data Analysis Methods:

ATR-IR spectra analyzed for functional groups; FE-SEM images for morphology and EDX for elemental analysis; DSC for thermal properties; nano-indentation data analyzed using Oliver and Pharr method for hardness and modulus; EIS data fitted to equivalent circuit for corrosion parameters.