3-Thiophenemalonic acid as corrosion inhibitor of copper

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the copper protection against corrosion using 3-thiophenemalonic acid (3TMA). Design/methodology/approach The heterocyclic organic molecule was tested experimentally as a corrosion inhibitor of copper in two different concentrations (0.01 M and 0.001 M) in 0.5 M solutions of sodium chloride and sulfuric acid by AC electrochemical and DC techniques. Findings Results showed that the organic compound was adsorbed chemically on the copper surface, and the inhibitions mechanism was both anodic and cathodic. The corrosion mechanism was under mixed control: charge transfer from metal to the environment through the double electrochemical layer, and diffusion processes. Practical implications This inhibitor could have application in water cooling systems. Originality/value The results of this paper showed that 3TMA could be used for reducing corrosion rates of copper in solutions of sodium chloride and sulfuric acid.