Study of Protic Ionic Liquids as Sustained Corrosion Inhibitors for Mild Steel in Saline Solution with Acidic pH and Temperature Variations Available to Purchase

The primary goal of the industry is to understand the best application of each metal alloy in terms of corrosion resistance [1]. The industrial is interested in exploring alternative ways to mitigate this corrosive process in a sustainable and economically viable manner [2]. One technique to combat this problem is the use of compounds known as corrosion inhibitors. However, some of these compounds are harmful to the environment and human health [3]. Therefore, there is a need for new corrosion inhibitors with minimal toxicity that can be used under a variety of operating conditions, such as unusual CO₂ concentrations that alter the pH level and temperature [4]. Protic ionic liquids (PILs) have the advantage/difference of the sustainability factor over other corrosion inhibitors because they are obtained from a simple acid-base synthesis, are more readily degradable in the environment, and are not bioaccumulative. Thus, using PILs as novel sustainable corrosion inhibitors is an interesting possibility. This work evaluates the performance of PILs as corrosion inhibitors under different conditions, including concentration, temperature, and pH. It also encompasses conducting a thorough surface characterization analysis of metallic samples after exposure in each condition studied.