Turmeric extract as a biocompatible inhibitor of mild steel corrosion in 3.5% NaCl solution

Abstract

Corrosion inhibitory impacts of turmeric with concentrations of 200-800 ppm on the electrochemical behavior of mild steel were studied in the medium of NaCl 3.5% using several techniques such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and polarization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for analyzing the surface of mild steel after 24 hours of immersion in the electrolyte solution, with and without turmeric. The results of polarization and EIS demonstrated that for the steel sample immersed in a salt solution containing 800 ppm of turmeric extract, the corrosion current density was decreased and the corrosion potential was shifted to positive values. On the other hand, the electric capacitance of the double-layer was decreased and the charge transfer resistance and inhibition efficiency were increased, confirming an improved corrosion resistance compared to the other sample concentrations. SEM results for the mentioned inhibitor with 800 ppm concentration showed a more even and continuous film formed on the surface of mild steel and no corrosion products was observed.