Corrosion inhibitors are chemicals used to prevent metal corrosion, and their principles mainly include the following aspects:
Forming a protective film: Corrosion inhibitors will form a protective film on the metal surface, blocking the contact between the metal and oxygen, water, or other corrosive media in the environment. This protective film can be formed through chemical adsorption or physical adsorption, and can permanently protect metals from corrosion.
Provide a barrier layer: The active ingredients in the corrosion inhibitor can react with the metal surface, forming a dense barrier layer covering the metal. This barrier layer can isolate the contact between metal and the outside world, prevent the invasion of corrosive media, and thus slow down the corrosion rate.
Inhibition of anodic process: Corrosion inhibitors can alter the anodic reaction of metals by adsorbing on their surfaces, inhibiting the release of metal ions, and reducing the electrochemical corrosion process of metals. They can change the charge distribution and electrochemical reaction rate on the electrode surface, thereby controlling the progress of corrosion reactions.
Slow dissolution: Some corrosion inhibitors can react chemically with metal surfaces to form a thin, soluble complex. This complex will slowly dissolve, releasing substances that have a protective effect on the metal, forming a stable equilibrium state and reducing the corrosion rate of the metal.
PH regulation: Some corrosion inhibitors can adjust the pH value in the medium to a higher or lower range, thereby changing the corrosion rate of metals. Adjusting the pH value appropriately can reduce the corrosion tendency of metals and increase their corrosion resistance in specific environments.
It should be noted that different corrosion inhibitors have different principles and mechanisms in different application fields and situations. Choosing a suitable corrosion inhibitor should comprehensively consider factors such as metal materials, environmental conditions, corrosion inhibition effect, and economic feasibility, and use it correctly according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.