In a groundbreaking development for the construction industry, researchers have discovered an eco-friendly method to enhance the corrosion resistance of steel structures using a natural plant extract. The study, led by Le Thi Nhung from the Institute of Oceanography at the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, explores the potential of henna (Lawsonia inermis) leaf extract as a dual-function dispersant and corrosion inhibitor in zinc-aluminum silicate coatings. This innovation could significantly impact the energy sector, where steel infrastructure is often exposed to harsh, corrosive environments.
Corrosion of steel structures is a persistent challenge, particularly in coastal and industrial settings where chloride-induced degradation accelerates structural failure. Traditional methods of protecting steel often involve toxic chemicals, which can have harmful environmental impacts. The research published in the journal Construction Materials (Vật liệu xây dựng) offers a sustainable alternative by leveraging the properties of henna extract.
The study found that adding henna extract to silicate coatings at a concentration of 5% by weight optimized pigment dispersion, resulting in a denser and more homogeneous coating microstructure. This improvement was attributed to the dual action of the henna extract: it acted as a dispersant, promoting uniform distribution of zinc-aluminum pigments and reducing porosity, and as a green corrosion inhibitor, forming a protective film on the steel surface.
“Our findings demonstrate that henna extract can significantly enhance the corrosion resistance of steel coatings,” said Le Thi Nhung. “This eco-friendly approach not only improves the durability of steel infrastructure but also supports the development of sustainable protective materials for construction applications.”
The electrochemical performance of the coatings was evaluated through impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization tests after 35 days of immersion in a 3.5% sodium chloride solution. The results showed that the formulation with 5% henna extract achieved the highest impedance and polarization resistance, confirming its enhanced corrosion resistance.
This research highlights the potential of bio-derived additives to enhance the long-term durability of steel infrastructure. The use of henna extract as a green corrosion inhibitor could revolutionize the way steel structures are protected, particularly in the energy sector where corrosion-resistant materials are crucial for the longevity and safety of infrastructure.
As the world increasingly focuses on sustainability and environmental responsibility, the development of eco-friendly protective materials becomes ever more important. The findings of this study could pave the way for future innovations in the field, offering a sustainable solution to a long-standing problem.
“By incorporating natural extracts like henna into our protective coatings, we can reduce our reliance on toxic chemicals and move towards a more sustainable future,” added Nhung. “This research is just the beginning, and we are excited about the potential applications and further developments in this area.”
The study’s implications extend beyond the construction industry, offering promising avenues for research in materials science and environmental engineering. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for durable, corrosion-resistant materials will only grow, making this research a timely and valuable contribution to the field.