Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of several azole derivatives on the corrosion inhibition of irradiated and non-irradiated plain carbon steel in 0.5 M nitric acid (HNO3) solutions at 30-60 degrees C and to study the mechanism of their inhibitive action.
Design/methodology/approach - The inhibition efficiency was evaluated by means of weight-loss determinations and polarization techniques at different temperatures. The type of adsorption isotherm, inhibition efficiency, surface coverage and kinetic data were determined.
Findings - The results showed that azole derivatives inhibit the corrosion of irradiated and non-irradiated carbon steel in acidic solution. The inhibition efficiency increased with the inhibitor concentration and was greater in the case of irradiated carbon steel than for the non-irradiated one. Kinetic parameters were calculated. The adsorption of inhibitors obeyed the Temkin Isotherm model. Thermodynamic parameters of activation were calculated in the presence of inhibitors.
Research limitations/implications - Electrochemical studies such as electrochemical impedance spectra will throw more light on the mechanism of inhibition.
Practical implications - Azole derivatives can be used as inhibitors in acid medium and addition of halides can improve their inhibition efficiency.
Originality/value - The investigation revealed the possible application of azole derivatives as environmentally friendly inhibitors for corrosion prevention under specific conditions.