Pollution Research Paper


Vol.44, Issue 3-4, 2025

Page Number: 237-245

ANTI-CORROSIVE PROFICIENCY OF ZINC METAL IN SEA WATER USING AMINO BENZOIC ACID AS AN INHIBITOR

G. THILAGAM, R. YAMUNA DEVI, A. ANANDHI1, T. MOHANDAS, A. IRUTHAYASEELAN, S. FAROOK BASHA AND S.S. SYED ABUTHAHIR

Abstract

The study investigates the effectiveness of an amino benzoic acid as an inhibitor in reducing the corrosion rate of zinc metal exposed to seawater. Using a variety of analytical techniques, including mass loss measurements, electrochemical studies, and AC impedance spectroscopy, the researchers examined the inhibitor’s impact on corrosion. To further assess surface morphology changes, by employed atomic force microscopy (AFM), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX). Findings from the mass loss approach reveal that the presence of 250 parts per million (ppm) of the amino benzoic acid compound achieves an inhibition efficiency (IE) of 83.78% in protecting zinc from seawater induced corrosion. Polarization studies suggest that the inhibitor operates predominantly through cathodic inhibition mechanisms, effectively impeding corrosion at the cathode of the electrochemical cell. AC impedance spectra indicate the formation of a protective layer on the zinc surface, which reduces corrosion. This protective film, containing a complex of Zn²z ions and amino benzoic acid, is confirmed through SEM, EDAX, and AFM analyses.