Experimental, electrochemical and DFT simulation studies of a novel Schiff base derivative as an efficient mild steel corrosion inhibitor in acidic environments

A newly synthesized Schiff base, consisting 3-methyl-2-{(E)-[(2E)-3-phenylprop-2-en-1-ylidene] amino} butanoic acid, is utilized to prevent mild steel from corroding in acidic environments. FTIR spectra validate the prepared SB. The corrosion rate at various temperatures was measured using electrochemical techniques like as polarization and electrochemical impedance tests. At a higher temperature of 333K, this molecule exhibits about 90% inhibition efficacy with 50 ppm inhibitor. The corrosion inhibition mechanism was measured using thermodynamic and adsorption characteristics. These findings suggest that chemical adsorption causes a surface layer to form on the metal surface. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm is followed. The creation of the adsorption layer on the metal surface is confirmed by SEM and AFM pictures. Quantum chemical calculations were calculated and discussed.