Corrosion Inhibition Potential of Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) Leaves Extract on Mild Steel in 0.1 M Sulphuric Acid Medium at Different Temperatures

The role of the phytochemicals in Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) plant is significant in preventing the corrosion. The current study investigated the effectiveness of lemongrass leaves extract (at concentrations ranging from 1-6%) in inhibiting the corrosion of mild steel (low carbon) in a corrosive medium of 0.1 M sulphuric acid. The extract was used as a green rust inhibitor at different temperatures (25, 35 and 45 ºC). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and linear polarization studies were conducted to analyze the electrochemical behaviour and understand the corrosion inhibition mechanism. Additionally, weight loss studies were carried out. At 6% concentration and 25 ºC, lemongrass extract showed 92.01% corrosion inhibition efficiency. The surface analysis of mild steel samples was performed using both metallurgical research micrographs (MRM) and SEM techniques. Based on the results, the study concludes that the lemongrass leaves extract is an excellent green corrosion inhibitor.