A study of copper corrosion inhibition by self-assembled films of 3-mercapto-1H-1,2,4-triazole

Self-assembled monolayers of 3-mercapto-1H-1,2,4-triazole (MTA) was formed over a copper surface at various immersion periods. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the films. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed for the characterization of surface morphology. The wettability of the film was examined using contact angle measurements. The corrosion protection ability of the films was assessed in a chloride solution using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and polarization measurements. The results of the study clearly ascertained the protection ability of self-assembled films of the MTA over copper. The theoretical studies also vouched for the experimental results.