The corrosion resistance of coatings based on methyl methacrylate/n-butyl methacrylate resin was improved by pretreating the steel surface with beta-diketones, which form complexes with iron at the steel surface. The extent of the protection was found to be related to the type of complex developed. The improved corrosion resistance and adhesion are thought to be due to chemical interactions between polymeric components and functional groups of the iron complex. -- AATA