α-Alkenylphenones — A New Class of Acid Corrosion Inhibitors

Abstract In this paper, A new class of corrosion inhibitors for steel in strong HCl is described. When formulated with small amounts of surfactants, α-Alkenylphenones provide excellent protection for oilfield steel in contact with strong HCl (up to 28%). The protection levels are similar to, and sometimes superior to, those provided by alkynols. In 15% HCl, benzoylallyl alcohol (BAA) appears to be a common intermediate, i.e., in the acid after 24 h when any of the four different phenyl ketones are used. Poly(phenylvinyl ketone) (PPVK), which could form on the surface from reaction of adsorbed BAA, was the major component of the thin surface film after corrosion tests with the four ketones.