Corrosion Inhibitor – Brief Summary:
A corrosion inhibitor is a chemical substance added in small amounts to liquids or gases to reduce or prevent the corrosion (rusting or degradation) of metals that come into contact with those environments.
It works by forming a protective film on the metal surface or by neutralizing corrosive agents such as acids, oxygen, or moisture.
Types of corrosion inhibitors:
1. Anodic inhibitors – Form a protective oxide film on the metal surface.
2. Cathodic inhibitors – Slow the reduction reactions that cause corrosion.
3. Mixed inhibitors – Protect both anodic and cathodic sites.
4. Volatile (vapor-phase) inhibitors – Protect metals in closed spaces by vapor action.