Anticorrosive studies of Chitosan/TiO2/g-C3N4 composite on mild steel in saline and acidic conditions

Abstract

This work focuses on the synthesis of a nanocomposite coating that enhances the anticorrosive property of the metal. The nanocomposite under study is a synergistic blend of chitosan, titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄), effectively challenging the corrosion problem faced by various industries. The environment-friendly and natural properties of chitosan, the photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ nanoparticles, and the efficient electrical conductivity of g-C₃N₄ make the composite an ideal material for studying anticorrosion activity. Experimental techniques like XPS, XRD, HR-TEM, FE-SEM, TGA, BET surface area, and FTIR analysis have been employed to characterize the nanocomposite. Weight loss studies indicate the efficacy of the nanocomposite on mild steel in 3.5 % NaCl and 1 M HCl. The corrosion behavior of the nanocomposite is examined by Tafel curves and electrochemical impedance analysis. The results indicate that the inhibition efficiency of chitosan/TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ nanocomposite is 99 % with a charge transfer resistance value of 152.43 Ω , which is more effective in the corrosion inhibition of mild steel than chitosan, TiO₂, and g-C₃N₄ when taken separately. The anticorrosive coating prepared using this composite can be applied on different surfaces under various environmental conditions to reduce corrosion.