The role of drug as corrosion inhibitor for mild steel surface characterization by SEM, AFM, and FTIR

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to understand the inhibitor behavior of specific drug against mild steel corrosion and their adsorption mechanism on the surface. Design/methodology/approach Corrosion rates are influenced by the formation of inhibitor aggregates at the mild steel surface. Detail surface characterizations of mild steel have been studied before and after adsorption of drugs in 1N HCl solution. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to examine the effect of drug adsorption on steel surface. Findings Scanning electron microscopy analysis suggested that the metal had been protected from aggressive corrosion because of the addition of the inhibitors. Atomic force microscopy visualization confirmed the formation of protective layer on steel surface, resulting in the decrease in surface roughness with corrosion rates. The nature of metal surface has been analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Originality/value The findings of this study will help us to understand the interaction of specific drugs with mild steel surface and their potential inhibition mechanism.