Dual-functional Quercus palustris leaves extract as a sustainable corrosion inhibitor for low-carbon steel and its biomedical potential: Electrochemical, biological, and computational insights

This study investigates the electrochemical and biological properties of Quercus palustris leaves extract (QPLE). The corrosion inhibition performances have been studied using electrochemical and weight-loss analysis for the low-carbon steel (LCS) in acidic media at 298 ± 1.0 K and found its corrosion inhibition efficiency over 90 % at a 1.00 g/L inhibitor concentration. SEM images show differences between corroded and protected surfaces, while FTIR-ATR and UV–visible spectroscopy confirm the formation of a protective film and metal-inhibitor complexes. Water contact angle and computational analysis further support these findings. Biological activities demonstrate strong antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antioxidant properties, with significant growth inhibition zones. Biofilm prevention was assessed using in vitro assays and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).