Corrosion inhibition behavior of four benzimidazole derivatives and benzotriazole on copper surface

Purpose This paper aims to reduce environment pollution caused by benzotriazole. The authors chose one of the best inhibitors from 2-aminobenzimidazole, 2-methylbenzimidazol, 2-mercaptobenzimidazole and benzimidazole in combination with benzotriazole. Design/methodology/approach The electrochemical measurement indicated that 2-methylbenzimidazol had the best inhibition behavior. Then, it was mixed with benzotriazole. Techniques such as field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and optical contact angle measurements were used. Findings The results showed that the inhibition efficiency was up to 99.98%, when the mixture concentration was 20 mmol/L and the molar ratio 1:1. Originality/value 1-benzotriazole was mixed with 2-methylbenzimidazol for the first time. During the exist of methyl, 2-methylbenzimidazol has the better inhibition; this point was ignored by researchers. Graphical abstract