In situ confocal Raman micro-spectroscopy and electrochemical studies of mussel adhesive protein and ceria composite film on carbon steel in salt solutions

- Film-forming corrosion inhibitor composed of Mussel protein and CeO2 nanoparticles.
- Confocal Raman mapping combined with EIS for studies of inhibition mechanism.
- Mussel protein forms tri-Fe3+/catechol complexes and binds to ceria nanoparticles.
- The composite film oxidizes ferrous to ferric.
- Phosphates react with Fe ions and heal defects of the composite film.