GREEN CORROSION INHIBITORS IN AQUEOUS SYSTEMS: BRIDGING SURFACE CHEMISTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY

Abstract: Corrosion remains a major challenge in industrial systems involving metals exposed to aqueous environments. Conventional corrosion inhibitors, although effective, often exhibit toxicity, poor biodegradability, and ecological hazards. Green corrosion inhibitors derived from plant extracts, natural polymers, amino acids, and biodegradable compounds have emerged as sustainable alternatives. This research paper examines the role of green corrosion inhibitors in aqueous systems, with an emphasis on adsorption mechanisms, surface chemistry, electrochemical behaviour, and environmental safety. The study also discusses inhibitor efficiency, adsorption isotherms, surface analytical methods, and ecological assessment. Experimental trends reported in literature indicate that green inhibitors can achieve inhibition efficiencies above 85–90% under optimized conditions while maintaining environmental compatibility. The paper bridges the gap between corrosion science and sustainability by evaluating both protective performance and environmental impact.

Keywords: Green corrosion inhibitors, aqueous systems, adsorption, electrochemistry, environmental safety, plant extracts, sustainable chemistry.