FURI | Spring 2025

Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel Using Ethoxylated Free Fatty Acid

This research project focuses on the development of biomass-derived green corrosion inhibitors, specifically ethoxylated free fatty acids, for use in gas pipelines. Free fatty acids, found typically attached to triglycerides, exhibit anti-corrosive properties. By modifying these fatty acids with a polar head functional group, their ability to interact with the HCL medium is improved. In this study, oleic acid is reacted with polyethylene glycol (PEG), introducing an ethyl functional group through ethoxylation, increasing solubility and binding to metal surfaces. With successful ethoxylation, oleic acid demonstrates potential as a highly effective and sustainable solution for mitigating corrosion in gas pipelines.