Corrosion Resistance of Steel S355MC in Crude Glycerol

Abstract

Corrosion is the degradation of materials in oxidizing environments. In aqueous solutions, it is initiated by the surface reaction of the metallic material with the surrounding electrolyte. The corrosion rate of metals can be significantly reduced by the presence of organic compounds. Crude glycerol is an organic by-product of biodiesel, soap, and fatty acid production. It is produced in substantial amounts through transesterification. Crude glycerol contains several impurities and has low economic value. Its disposal in the environment is unwanted and potential applications need to be explored. In the present short communication, steel corrosion in crude glycerol has been investigated for the first time. The corrosion behavior of low-alloy structural steel S355MC in non-purified crude glycerol was studied by electrochemical methods. The results were compared with the use of tap water. The open-circuit potential (OCP) of S355MC in crude glycerol was more negative compared with that of tap water. The OCP was stable over time, indicating the rapid passivation of the steel substrate. The corrosion resistance was further studied by electrode polarization. On the polarization curve of S355MC in crude glycerol, a wide passivation region was found. Furthermore, the corrosion rate was 2.2 times smaller compared with that of tap water. The surface exposed to tap water was significantly degraded by red rust. The surface of S355MC after exposure to crude glycerol, on the other hand, was less affected by corrosion and covered with a protective layer. The results demonstrate a significant corrosion-inhibiting activity of crude glycerol that could be utilized in various technologies.