Effect of Citrus aurantifolia Seed Extract on the Mechanical Properties of Mild Steel in 0.1m Hydrochloric Acid

Abstract

Citrus aurantifolia (lime) seed extract was evaluated as corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 0.1M Hydrochloric acid, using weight loss measurements at room temperature. Citrus aurantifolia (lime) seed extract inhibited the corrosion of mild steel significantly with 88.4% efficiency at the highest concentration of 45mls of the inhibitor. Tensile strength, hardness, Surface profiling and micro structural tests were carried out on the as- received and inhibited coupons. The tensile tests revealed an increase in tensile strength, demonstrating that the extract not only protects the steel from corrosion but also improves its ductility and strength. Hardness measurements showed a noticeable increase in surface hardness while the Surface analysis confirmed the formation of a protective film on the mild steel surface, attributed to the adsorption of active compounds from the seed extract. This study offers valuable contributions to the field of corrosion science and materials engineering.