The Effect of Eco-Friendly Inhibitors on the Corrosion Properties of Concrete Reinforcement in Harsh Environments

In the present research, the synergistic effect of Arabic and guar gum inhibitors on the corrosion efficiency of concrete reinforcement was investigated. Thus, eight types of Arabic and guar gum combinations with 100, 250, 500, 750, and 1000 ppm were added to the steel reinforcement for 1, 7, 28, 48, and 72 days. The corrosion behavior of the samples was investigated by the electrochemical impedance (EIS) test. Water transmissibility, electrical resistivity, and compressive strength of concrete were also studied. The results showed that adding inhibitors generally increased the compressive strength of concrete. It was also found that water transmissibility was reduced by the addition of inhibitors. The electrical resistivity of the samples increased slightly with increasing time up to 72 days. EIS and Tafel results have demonstrated that Arabic and guar gums are effective inhibitors for reinforced concrete structures. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) utilized to analyze the samples indicated that inhibitor grain size was enhanced by enhancing the concentration of the inhibitor combination, showing that the guar and Arabic inhibitor combinations were properly absorbed on the reinforcement surface. Results showed that a sample with 250 ppm Arabic gum and 250 ppm guar gum having a properly distributed inhibitor combination on the reinforcement surface creates a desirable cathode current.