Effects of Alchornea cordifolia leaf extract on the mechanical properties of mild steel in acidic medium

Abstract

The effect of Alchornea Cordifolia leaf extract on the mechanical properties of mild steel in acidic medium was studied using weight loss method. The first sample was not introduced to any medium. It served as the control1 sample. The second sample was introduced to a medium containing 0.2M Sulphuric acid solution in the absence of the Alchornea Cordifolia leaves extract for 21 days, while the third sample was immersed in a vessel containing 0.2M sulphuric2 acid and 0.5g/L of Alchornea Cordifolia leaves extract as an inhibitor for 21 days. Results obtained showed a substantial improvement on the mechanical properties of mild steel exposed to the medium with the inhibitor.
 Keywords: Mechanical Properties, Corrosion, Inhibition, Alchornea Cordifolia, Sulphuric acid