Mild steel provides strength to various building and industrial materials but it is badly affected by corrosion. In the present study, we investigate the efficacy of Rumex nepalensis, a plant-based green corrosion inhibitor to minimize mild steel corrosion in a 1 M H2SO4 solution. Weight loss, surface coverage, inhibition efficiency, and corrosion rate measurements were evaluated for various inhibitor concentrations and time intervals. Rumex nepalensis was found to be 98.35% efficient in preventing mild steel from acid corrosion by forming a barrier that reduces the interaction between mild steel and the acidic environment, it was further validated by UV-Vis and contact angle investigations. The scanning electron microscopy images demonstrated the inhibitor's protective effect, showing a smoother surface. These investigations show that the Rumex nepalensis inhibitor significantly improves mild steel's corrosion resistance, offering immediate and long-term protection in acidic environments, even at deficient concentrations. It shows promise as an effective natural inhibitor and merits further consideration for future applications.
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