Tribo-Corrosion Control with Molecules of Bio-Origin: Experimental Studies and Theoretical Insights

Abstract

AbstractTribo corrosion control of 6061 aluminum alloy was done by using naturally available Boswellia serrata (BWS) extract as green inhibitor. Studies were done in artificial sea water slurry containing 0.03% sand particles via a submerged jet impingement technique. Electrochemical studies were the majour techniques adopted for corrosion rate measurement in the absence and in the presence of inhibitor. Investigation was done at different flow rates and at different temperatures. Detailed surface study was done for sand particles before and after impingement using scanning electron microscope. Surface morphology of aluminum sample was done before and after the addition of inhibitor. For a given flowrate inhibition efficiency decreased with increase in temperature. This suggested the possibility of physical adsorption. Results were fitted into suitable adsorption isotherm. Mechanism of adsorption was supported and substantiated by quantum chemical calculations using Density Functional Theory (DFT). The best corrosion–erosion resistance was obtained at a concentration of 1000 ppm Boswellia serrata at 303 K under 4 L min−1. DFT studies supported the adsorption mechanism of the inhibitor on the surface of metal under tribological conditions. The outcome of this work will help in research that is focused on development on green inhibitors for corrosion inhibition under dynamic multi flow conditions.