INVESTIGATION OF THE ANTICORROSIVE PROPERTIES OF URGINEA MARITIMA EXTRACT FOR THE PROTECTION OF COPPER IN AN ACIDIC ENVIRONMENT

The corrosion of metallic materials arises from their physical–chemical interaction with the environment, causing degradation influenced by various factors. To combat corrosion, inhibiting compounds containing heteroatoms have been extensively explored. Among these, plant extracts emerge as promising candidates due to their eco-friendly and cost-effective corrosion inhibition properties.

This study delves into the anticorrosive effects of Urginea maritima hydroalcoholic extract (EUM) on copper in a 0.5M H2SO4 acid medium. Employing electrochemical techniques such as impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), the research reveals EUM's inhibitory action, notably delaying the cathodic reaction responsible for corrosion initiation. By utilizing an appropriate electrical equivalent circuit model, the electrochemical impedance parameters are accurately determined, showcasing a notable increase in corrosion inhibition, reaching up to 95.2% at an EUM concentration of 1 g/L, as observed through EIS.

Further insights from PDP (potentiodynamic polarization) demonstrate EUM's mixed-type inhibition, which effectively retards the process of copper corrosion. Complementary SEM-EDX analysis confirms the formation of a protective EUM layer on the copper surface, elucidating its mechanism of action and reinforcing its efficacy in corrosion prevention.

Overall, this study highlights the potential of Urginea maritima hydroalcoholic extract as a viable solution for protecting copper against corrosion. Beyond its inhibitory effects, EUM presents itself as an economically feasible and environmentally sustainable alternative, offering significant promise for industries seeking eco-friendly corrosion prevention strategies. Through meticulous electrochemical characterization and material surface analysis, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge aimed at developing effective corrosion inhibitors with minimal environmental impact.