Efficacy of Andrographis paniculata leaf extract as a green corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in concentrated sulfuric acid: Experimental and computational insights

The rising demand for eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors has intensified efforts to find sustainable alternatives to hazardous chemical inhibitors widely used in industry. Mild steel , although commonly utilized in acidic environments, is prone to significant corrosion, necessitating effective solutions to prevent structural degradation. This study investigates the potential of Andrographis paniculata leaf extract (APLE) as a sustainable, green corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in concentrated sulfuric acid, a condition representative of harsh industrial environments. Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) methods, APLE demonstrated a high inhibition efficiency of 95.14% at a concentration of 4000 ppm, effectively reducing both anodic and cathodic corrosion reactions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a protective layer formation on the steel surface, significantly reducing corrosion. The adsorption of APLE followed the Langmuir isotherm, indicating monolayer coverage, while quantum chemical calculations validated APLE's electron-donating capability, enhancing surface stability through physisorption. These findings underscore APLE as a viable, eco-friendly alternative to conventional inhibitors, offering promising applications in various acidic environments.