Date of Last Revision
2023-05-03 13:02:53
Major
Chemical Engineering
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2019
Abstract
Corrosion can be combated by multiple methods, where the primary purpose is to minimize degradation of metal surfaces. Corrosion inhibitors are one of the most effective methods of corrosion protection. Inhibitors are substances that minimize corrosion in aggressive environments, with only a low concentration required. The inhibitors are chemically adsorbed on the surface of the metal and a protective thin film is formed . The mechanism of the inhibitors could be described as anodic, cathodic, or a mix of the two. Anodic inhibitors, also known as passivation inhibitors, alter an anode reaction. Corrosion potential of the metal is shifted to more positive values. Cathodic corrosion inhibitors prevent the cathodic reactions of a metal. The film reduces the diffusion restriction of reducible species.
Inhibitors can dissolve quickly in intense environments and there are certain situations where the inhibitor addition is not practical. It would be ideal to release the inhibitor to the material when needed. Inhibitor would be released according the environment and the corrosion behavior of the metal. Releasing the inhibitor as needed results in corrosion mitigation as well as self-curing. An epoxy coating with the inhibitor could allow the inhibitor to release at a specific pH. One of the important parts to consider is that the correct amount of the inhibitor needs to be released. An insufficient amount of the inhibitor could affect the film protection. If the metal is not completely covered, this could cause localized corrosion. The overall goal is to have continuous corrosion protection.
The corrosion inhibitors would open at a specific pH, initiated by a polymer. Sodium chromate is a strong inhibitor and is to be used for testing. This project is built upon previous research on inhibitor release. Previous studies were performed on the effect of aluminum powder on sodium chromate. Aluminum is synthesized with sodium chromate. Varying amounts of the powder was mixed with sodium chromate. Corrosion tests were performed on the aluminum with sodium chromate. The same studies are performed with zinc and magnesium.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Rajeev Gupta
First Reader
Dr. David Bastidas
Second Reader
Dr. Qixin Zhou
Recommended Citation
Thomas, Andrew, "Controlled release of corrosion inhibitors: Zinc and Magnesium containing Sodium Chromate" (2019). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 960.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/960