DiEffense: Efficacy of dumb cane (Dieffenbachia seguine (Jacq.) Schott) extract as plant–based inhibitor for mild steel corrosion

Corrosion of mild steel in marine environments causes significant material degradation and economic losses, creating a need for sustainable and environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors. This study investigated the effectiveness of Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia seguine (Jacq.) Schott) extracts as a plant-based corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in natural seawater. Ethanolic extracts from the leaves, stems, and roots were prepared and tested at concentrations of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 g/L. Corrosion inhibition performance was evaluated using weight loss measurements and surface image analysis, while Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to identify functional groups associated with corrosion inhibition. The results showed a clear concentration-dependent reduction in corrosion, with weight loss decreasing significantly as extract concentration increased. At 0.8 g/L, near-complete protection was achieved, with inhibition efficiencies reaching 100% for the stem/leaf extract and 97.10% for the root extract. Statistical analysis confirmed that inhibitor concentration had a significant effect on corrosion reduction, while differences between plant parts were not statistically significant. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic functional groups attributed to phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, which facilitate adsorption onto the mild steel surface. Surface image analysis further confirmed reduced rust coverage and improved surface morphology in treated samples. These findings demonstrate that Dumb cane extracts act as effective, eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors through an adsorption-controlled mechanism, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic inhibitors for mild steel protection in seawater environments.