Synthesis, experimental and theoretical studies of two aryl-azo derivatives clubbed with 2-acetylphenol and their application as novel luminescent coatings with high anticorrosion efficiency

Abstract

In the current study, novel luminescent coatings and corrosion inhibitors were designed, prepared, and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques. Two aryl-azo derivatives linked with 2-acetylphenols were designed and synthesized through a simple condensation reaction. Luminescent coatings offer a wide range of applications. In azo-dye molecules, the existence of heteroatoms and π-electron systems is critical for their color and ability to adsorb on metal surfaces and other adsorbents. The quantum calculations, corrosion inhibition, and photoluminescence properties of two simple azo derivatives with various substitutions are evaluated and discussed. Surprisingly, their powders emitted white light from a single component. Furthermore, the impact of incorporating electron-donating or withdrawing groups on the molecular packing and emission properties has been shown. The photoluminescence measurements confirmed that the derivative with an electron-withdrawing group has molecular aggregation capable of generating white emission from a single chromophore. The investigated compounds displayed significant inhibitory efficiency (ex. 92%) and played an important role in preventing C-steel corrosion in 2 M HCl. The electrochemical experiments confirmed that the presence of these azo derivatives reduces corrosion current densities, double-layer capacities, and corrosion rate while improving charge transfer resistance. The outcomes show that the computational calculations are rather accurate in matching the experimental data. As a result, the molecules under study may give a straightforward method for obtaining the interesting single-component white emission from a simple material. • A Fries rearrangement was employed to construct acetyl-4-(4-bromo/methyl-phenylazo)phenols for the first time. • May serve as a luminescent coating for potential commercial applications. • The tested azo compound retard C-steel corrosion rate. • AFM and DFT studies support protecting of C-steel against acid corrosion.