A Schiff base compound as effective corrosion inhibitor for magnesium in acidic media

The inhibition effect of a Schiff base compound (Salcn) on magnesium corrosion was studied using potentiodynamic polarization, EIS (Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy) and EN (Electrochemical Noise) methods. It was found that this compound acts as a strong inhibitor for magnesium in 0.01 M HCl. Results showed that this compound acts as a mixed type inhibitor. As the inhibitor concentration increased, the corrosion resistance of magnesium increased. The results of EN measurements in frequency domain were in good agreement with other methods results. It was also found that this inhibitor mainly acts through physical adsorption on the metal surface. Also, adsorption obeys the Freundlich isotherm. SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) images revealed that the damage of magnesium surface has diminished in the presence of inhibitor.

► Salcn Schiff base acts as a strong mixed type inhibitor for magnesium in HCl.
► Inhibition efficiency increases as the inhibitor concentration increases.
► EN, EIS and polarization results were in good agreement.
► Salcn Schiff base acts by physical adsorption on magnesium.
► Salcn Schiff base adsorption on magnesium obeys the Freundlich isotherm.