Carbon nanodots synthesized from chitosan and its application as a corrosion inhibitor in boat‑building carbon steel BIS2062

Abstract

Carbon quantum dots are fuorescent nanoparticles with various unique properties such as environmental friendliness, high conductivity, low toxicity and high stability. This study aimed to synthesize carbon nanodots (CDs) from chitosan and apply them as a corrosion inhibitor in BIS 2062 carbon steel. CDs were synthesized from chitosan, and their morphological characteristics studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron micrograph (TEM). The AFM and TEM results showed that the CD had a spherical shape and 2D structure. The FTIR spectroscopy results indicated that the CDs were rich in C=O and C–O functional groups. The UV–Vis spectroscopic analysis showed absorption peaks at 288 and 222 nm. Moreover, the zeta potential was positive. The BIS 2062 carbon steel, which is used for boat building, was coated with CDs, and its electrochemical characteristics were studied through linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The LSV and EIS results showed that steel coupons coated with 0.05 per cent CD had excellent corrosion resistance. Cyclic voltammetric evaluation using glassy carbon electrode revealed that the oxidation and reduction potential of iron oxide were signifcantly suppressed due to the coating of CDs. The results highlighted the use of CDs as a corrosion inhibitor and a potential alternative to graphene-based materials.