Aromatic Metal Corrosion Inhibitors

Molecular inhibitors added to the corrosive medium attacking metallic materials are a well-established way of combating corrosion. The inhibitive action proceeds via adsorption of the inhibitor on the surface to be protected. Aromatic building blocks in the inhibitor play a major role in its protective action, and further details like substituents, heteroatoms, and molecular geometry contribute. An overview focused on aromatic inhibitors is provided, aiming at the identification of particularly promising inhibitors and their mode of action. Directions for further research and development are pointed out in the conclusion.