In a breakthrough that could revolutionize the energy sector, researchers from the School of Power Engineering at Chongqing Electric Power College have discovered an eco-friendly and efficient corrosion inhibitor derived from tea seed shells. The study, led by MEI Qizheng and SHI Ni, explores the extraction and application of this natural compound in thermal equipment pickling, a critical process in power plant maintenance.
The team employed the Soxhlet extraction method using anhydrous ethanol to extract effective ingredients from tea seed shells, which were then tested as the main components of a pickling inhibitor. “We designed an orthogonal test of four factors and three levels to optimize the extraction conditions for the highest yield,” explained MEI Qizheng. The results were promising, with the extract demonstrating excellent corrosion inhibition performance.
The research, published in *Cailiao Baohu* (translated as “Materials Protection”), revealed that under optimal conditions—an acidic medium with a 0.35% concentration of the extract at a temperature of 90°C—the tea seed shell extract significantly reduced the corrosion rate of 20G steel to 1.49 g/(m²·h), achieving a corrosion inhibition rate of 91.38%. This finding is particularly noteworthy as it addresses the long-standing challenge of finding environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional, often toxic, corrosion inhibitors.
The study also highlighted the impact of Fe³⁺ concentration on corrosion inhibition efficiency, emphasizing the need to control Fe³⁺ levels below 300 mg/L in the pickling solution. The extract was found to inhibit both cathode and anode reactions, classifying it as a mixed corrosion inhibitor that primarily controls the anode reaction.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Corrosion is a major issue in thermal equipment, leading to costly maintenance and potential downtime. The discovery of a natural, effective, and eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor could lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency. “This research opens up new possibilities for sustainable practices in the energy industry,” said SHI Ni. “By utilizing agricultural waste like tea seed shells, we can develop green solutions that are both effective and environmentally responsible.”
The findings suggest that future developments in corrosion inhibition could focus on exploring other natural sources and optimizing extraction methods to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. As the energy sector continues to seek sustainable solutions, this research provides a compelling example of how innovation can drive progress towards a greener future.
The study’s insights into the adsorption behavior and inhibition mechanisms of the tea seed shell extract offer a foundation for further research. As the energy sector increasingly prioritizes sustainability, the adoption of such eco-friendly technologies could become a standard practice, shaping the future of power plant maintenance and beyond.