Coordination chemistry in corrosion science and engineering: Role of coordination bonding and coordination materials

Coordination chemistry plays a significant role in corrosion science by clarifying the mechanics of interactions between inhibitor molecules and metal surfaces and using coordination compounds as effective corrosion inhibitors. The conventional corrosion inhibitors use their heteroatoms (N, O, S, and P) and electron-rich polar functional groups to coordinate with the metal surface. The polar substituents also influence the coordination and bonding efficiency of entire inhibitor molecules through resonance and inductive effects, which affect the electron density at the coordination site or sites. This review comprehensively illustrates the contribution of coordination chemistry principles and theories in corrosion inhibitors' adsorption and bonding. Numerous coordination materials, including MOFs (metal-organic frameworks), OMCs (organometallic compounds), CPs (coordination polymers), and their derivatives and composites, have emerged as next-generation corrosion inhibitors. The article discusses the advantages of coordination materials, including high surface area, adequate coverage, and self-healing potential, as alternatives to toxic corrosion inhibitors. It highlights the corrosion inhibition potential of emerging materials like MOF-MXenes composites and their self-healing properties, emphasizing the importance of coordination chemistry in developing sustainable corrosion inhibitors. This also underscores the growing relevance of coordination chemistry in developing sustainable, high-performance corrosion inhibitors tailored for modern industrial demands.