Exploring the potent corrosion inhibition properties of phenolic Schiff bases on mild steel in acidic environments, part A: coupling experimental and theoretical investigations

In this study, we conduct a comparative investigation into the corrosion inhibition properties of two Schiff base compounds, namely 4,4′-((1E,1′E)-(ethane-1,2 diylbis(azaneylylidene))bis(methaneylylidene))diphenol (PSB5) and (1E,1′E)-N,N′-(ethane-1,2 diyl)bis(1-(4-nitrophenyl)methanimine) (PSB6), on mild steel in an acidic environment. The inhibitory efficiency and adsorption behavior of the inhibitors were assessed through electrochemical and gravimetric analyses. The inhibitors’ deposition was further verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The findings of electrochemical tests demonstrate that these chemical compounds are potent inhibitors, with 96.5% inhibition provided by PSB5 at 10⁻³ M. Therefore, PSB5 and PSB6 inhibitors are likely of mixed-form, as evidenced by changes in their E_corr values of 59.8 mV and 33.0 mV, respectively when compared to the blank solution. Furthermore, the adsorption of these inhibitors onto the MS surface, as determined by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, yielded free energy values of − 38.40 kJ mol⁻¹ for PSB5 and − 35.20 kJ mol⁻¹ for PSB6. These findings highlight a robust and spontaneous adsorption process for both inhibitors. Surface analysis using SEM–EDS revealed the preservation of the mild steel surface morphology and the adsorption of inhibitors. Theoretical investigations utilizing density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations supported and complemented the experimental findings. This research enhances the understanding of the corrosion protection potential of Schiff base compounds and their potential applications in various industries.