Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel With Phenol-Based Anticorrosion Fraction: Preparation, Phytochemistry, and Potentiodynamic Polarization
Abstract
Corrosion poses a significant threat to various industries, and effective corrosion inhibition strategies are crucial for material integrity and longevity. This study investigates the corrosion inhibition potential of a polyphenol-rich fraction (PRFSS) extracted from the stem bark of \textit{Senegalia senegal}, a drought-tolerant shrub. The PRFSS was evaluated as a green and eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1M H$_{2}$SO$_{4}$ solution. The phytochemical screening of PRFSS revealed the presence of tannins, phenols, and anthocyanins. The potentiodynamic polarization measurement showed that PRFSS significantly inhibited the corrosion of mild steel. The inhibition efficiency increased with increasing PRFSS concentration, suggesting the formation of a protective layer on the metal surface. Thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption of PRFSS onto mild steel followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, indicating a monolayer coverage. The enthalpy and activation energy of adsorption were negative, suggesting an exothermic and spontaneous adsorption process. The surface characterization using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the adsorption of PRFSS on the metal surface and the formation of a protective film. The study highlights the potential of PRFSS as a sustainable and effective corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in acidic environments. Its eco-friendly nature and biodegradability make it an attractive alternative to conventional corrosion inhibitors, contributing to environmental sustainability. The findings have implications for the development of environmentally benign strategies for corrosion control in various industrial~applications.