Critical Review Regarding the Application of Plant Extracts as Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitors—A Sustainable Interdisciplinary Approach
Catalin Alexandru Barbu, Irina Fierăscu, Augustin Semenescu, Cosmin Mihai Cotruț
Abstract
Corrosion remains a persistent and costly issue across multiple industrial domains, including infrastructure, transportation, and marine operations. The deterioration of metals and alloys under corrosive conditions results in significant financial losses and poses considerable environmental and safety risks. Although traditional corrosion inhibitors demonstrate high efficacy, they often contain toxic, synthetic compounds that endanger both human health and ecological systems. The increasing global focus on environmental responsibility and green chemistry has intensified the demand for alternative, non-toxic corrosion mitigation strategies. This review examines the use of plant extracts obtained through various processing methods as "environmentally friendly", responsible corrosion inhibitors. This analysis underscores the capacity of plant-based compounds to counteract material degradation across diverse applications, from technologically advanced industrial systems to the preservation of cultural heritage. Through an interdisciplinary perspective, this review evaluates the viability of botanical approaches as sustainable substitutes for conventional inhibitors, contributing to a broader understanding of their potential across distinct fields.