Corrosion inhibitors are a type of chemical substance mainly used to inhibit the corrosion process of metals. They slow down the corrosion rate of metal surfaces by complexing with metal ions or forming protective films. The following are some of the main functions and functions of corrosion inhibitors:
Inhibition of metal corrosion: Corrosion inhibitors can react chemically with the metal surface to form a protective film that blocks direct contact between the metal and the corrosive medium, thereby reducing the corrosion rate of the metal surface. These film layers can include inorganic salts, oxides, hydroxides, sulfides, etc.
Formation of corrosion inhibitor layer: Corrosion inhibitors can form a dense corrosion inhibitor layer on the metal surface, providing physical and chemical protection. The corrosion inhibitor layer can block the direct contact between the corrosive medium and the metal, reduce the reaction rate, and delay the corrosion process of the metal.
Provide anode protection: Corrosion inhibitors can be protected by changing the electrode reaction on the metal surface, making it an anode. They can improve the anodic polarization of metals, reduce the anodic dissolution rate, and thus reduce metal corrosion.
Blocking electron transfer: Corrosion inhibitors can form an electron barrier layer with the metal surface, preventing the transfer of electrons between the metal surface and the corrosive medium. This barrier layer can reduce the progress of electrochemical reactions, thereby inhibiting metal corrosion.
Adjusting pH value: Some corrosion inhibitors also have the function of adjusting the pH value of the solution. By adjusting the acidity and alkalinity of the solution, the activity and corrosion rate of the metal surface can be controlled.
In summary, the main function of corrosion inhibitors is to inhibit the corrosion process of metals. They can delay the corrosion rate of metals by forming a protective film, providing anode protection, and preventing electron transfer. They have extensive applications in fields such as metal anti-corrosion, coatings, and corrosion suppression.