Inhibition performance of a gemini surfactant and its co-adsorption effect with halides on mild steel in 0.25 M H2SO4 solution

The inhibition performance of a cationic gemini-surfactant (CBB) and its co-adsorption behavior with halides on mild steel in 0.25 M H2SO4 solution was studied by weight loss and electrochemical techniques. Results showed that the compound could effectively inhibit the mild steel corrosion and acted as a mixed-type inhibitor by suppressing simultaneously anodic and cathodic reactions. Addition of the halides improve the inhibition efficiency of CBB and the synergistic effect increase in the order of I− > Br− > Cl−, revealing that halides radii and their electronegativity may play significant roles in co-adsorption with the cationic inhibitor.

Graphical abstract.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► 1,4-Bis (1-chlorobenzyl-benzimidazolyl)-butane has good inhibition effect for mild steel in H2SO4. ► The compound acts as a mixed-type inhibitor and obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. ► Halide ions can improve the inhibition property of compound via the co-adsorption effect. ► The adsorbed halides play an important intermediate bridge role in co-adsorption process. ► The obtained results can supply the bases for the future using of cationic inhibitor.