The corrosion of embedded steel reinforcement remains a major challenge in the durability and long-term performance of reinforced concrete structures. In this study, the corrosion behavior of A36 carbon steel was investigated in simulated concrete pore solution (CPS) in the presence and absence of biomolecules, biodegradable and sustainable organic compounds. Electrochemical techniques, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), were employed to assess the inhibition efficiency of tested biomolecules across various concentrations. The results indicated that the use of biomolecules as an inhibitor significantly reduced the corrosion rate of A36 steel, primarily by forming an adsorbed protective film on the metal surface. A notable increase in polarization resistance and a shift in corrosion potential were observed, suggesting mixed-type inhibition behavior. To complement the electrochemical findings, surface morphology studies using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) will be conducted to further confirm the protective characteristics of the inhibitor film. This work highlights the potential of biomolecules as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective corrosion inhibitor for reinforced concrete applications.
