Table of Contents
What is a Corrosion Inhibitor?
- A corrosion inhibitor is a substance that is used to reduce or prevent corrosion. There are many different types of corrosion inhibitors, and they can be divided into two categories: organic and inorganic.
- Organic corrosion inhibitors are made of organic molecules, and they are typically used to protect metal surfaces from corrosion in water. Inorganic corrosion inhibitors are made of inorganic molecules, and they are typically used to protect metal surfaces from corrosion in air.
Anodic Inhibitor
An anodic inhibitor is a type of chemical inhibitor that blocks the anodic reaction in a corrosion cell. It does this by adsorbing to the surface of the metal to be protected and forming a protective film. This film blocks the access of the corrosive agent to the metal and prevents the corrosion reaction from taking place.
Anodic Inhibitors Examples Include:
- Chromates
- Nitrites
- Phosphates
- Sulfates
Anodic inhibitors work by forming a thin film on the metal surface that prevents the oxidation of the metal.
Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor
VCI is a technology used to protect metals from corrosion. It is a vapor that is emitted from a product and attaches to the metal to create a protective barrier.
Mixed Inhibitors
Some inhibitors are a mix of different types. For example, a mixed inhibitor might block both enzymes and receptors.
Applications of Corrosion Inhibitors
There are many applications for corrosion inhibitors. Some common applications are:
- Protecting metal pipelines from corrosion
- Protecting metal equipment from corrosion
- Preventing corrosion in concrete
- Preventing corrosion in water pipes
Mechanisms of Corrosion Inhibitors
- There are many types of corrosion inhibitors, but they all work in similar ways. Inhibitors work by adsorbing onto the metal surface, forming a protective film. This film blocks the contact between the metal and the corrosive environment, preventing the metal from corroding.
- Inhibitors can also work by forming a protective layer of oxidation on the metal surface. This layer blocks the contact between the metal and the corrosive environment, preventing the metal from corroding.
Inhibitors
Inhibitors are a class of drugs that block the action of enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body. Inhibitors can be used to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Some common inhibitors include statins, which are used to lower cholesterol, and beta blockers, which are used to treat high blood pressure.
Factors to Consider While Selecting an Inhibitor
The following are factors to consider while selecting an inhibitor:
1. The type of inhibitor
2. The concentration of inhibitor
3. The temperature of the system
4. The pH of the system
5. The presence of other species in the system
6. The solubility of the inhibitor in the system
7. The reactivity of the inhibitor with the substrate
8. The physical state of the inhibitor
9. The cost of the inhibitor
Corrosion Classification
There are three main types of corrosion:
- Uniform corrosion: This is the most common type of corrosion and it causes a uniform thinning of the metal.
- Galvanic corrosion: This occurs when two different types of metal are in contact with each other and an electric current is created. The metal with the higher electrical potential corrodes faster.
- Pitting corrosion: This is a type of corrosion that causes small holes or pits to form in the metal.
Effective Method of Using Corrosion Inhibitor
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the most effective method of using a corrosion inhibitor will vary depending on the specific inhibitor and the application. However, in general, the most effective way to use a corrosion inhibitor is by adding it to the process fluid or system in which corrosion is taking place. This will help to ensure that the inhibitor is in contact with the metal surfaces that are being corroded, and will help to prevent or reduce corrosion.
