In the relentless battle against corrosion, a new champion has emerged from an unlikely source: the humble willow tree. Researchers have discovered that an extract from willow tree galls can significantly inhibit corrosion in St37 steel, a commonly used material in the energy sector. This breakthrough, published in the journal Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, could revolutionize how industries protect their infrastructure from the ravages of acidic environments.
At the heart of this research is Erfan Mehdipour Rabori, an MSc in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering from Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman. Rabori’s work focuses on finding green alternatives to traditional corrosion inhibitors, which often come with significant environmental drawbacks. “The use of plant extracts as corrosion inhibitors is not new,” Rabori explains, “but the effectiveness of willow tree gall extract in harsh environments like hydrochloric acid is quite remarkable.”
The study, conducted in a 1 molar hydrochloric acid solution, showed that the willow tree gall extract formed a protective film on the steel surface, reducing the corrosion rate dramatically. Electrochemical tests, including Potentiodynamic Polarization and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy, revealed that higher concentrations of the extract led to stronger protective films and increased charge transfer resistance. “At 1200 ppm, we observed a 95.8% inhibition efficiency,” Rabori notes, highlighting the extract’s potential as a powerful anti-corrosion agent.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. St37 steel is widely used in pipelines, storage tanks, and other critical infrastructure that often operate in highly corrosive environments. Traditional inhibitors, such as chromates, have been restricted due to their environmental impact, leaving a gap that green inhibitors like willow tree gall extract could fill. “This research opens up new possibilities for sustainable corrosion protection,” Rabori says. “It’s not just about protecting the metal; it’s about protecting the environment too.”
The study also employed advanced analytical techniques, including FTIR and SEM, to understand the mechanisms behind the extract’s inhibitory effects. FTIR analysis identified functional groups in the extract that contribute to corrosion inhibition, while SEM images validated the formation of a protective film on the steel surface. These findings provide a solid foundation for further research and potential commercial applications.
As industries strive for more sustainable practices, the search for green inhibitors has become a priority. Willow tree gall extract represents a promising step forward, offering effective corrosion protection without the environmental drawbacks of traditional methods. “The future of corrosion inhibition is green,” Rabori asserts. “And willow tree gall extract is a significant part of that future.”
The research, published in the journal Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, translates to ‘مواد نوین’ in English, underscores the growing trend towards sustainable solutions in the construction and energy sectors. As the industry continues to evolve, innovations like this will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and efficient future. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit greatly from these advancements, as the protection of critical infrastructure becomes increasingly important in the face of environmental challenges.