This proposal advances the mission and vision of the NDSC by optimizing the formulation of soybean-derived isoflavones into green corrosion-inhibiting additives for carbon steel. Our prior NDSC-supported research demonstrated the natural corrosion inhibition properties of soybean extracts (SEs) attributed to aromatic isoflavones such as daidzein, genistein, and glycitein. This project targets a critical gap in existing knowledge: the lack of optimized formulations to maximize these compounds’ protective efficacy. Several studies investigating corrosion inhibition have revealed SEs’ ability to adsorb onto metal surfaces and form protective films. However, existing research does not explore the synergistic effects of blending specific isoflavones for their inhibition performance at varying temperatures in acidic media. By integrating electrochemical testing coupled with a systematic experiment design, this study aims to formulate SE-based additives that meet industrial demands for sustainability while directly enhancing soybean marketability.

The increasing global demand for corrosion inhibitors, valued at US$ 8.93 billion in 2024 and projected to reach US$ 11 billion by 2030, emphasizes the critical need for this research. Likewise, the soybean market—estimated at US$ 193.10 billion in 2023—is poised to grow at a 4.4% compound annual growth rate through 2030, driven by demand for bio-based industrial materials. This research positions North Dakota farmers to capitalize on these trends by transitioning soybeans into value-added corrosion inhibitors. Our approach combines our group’s expertise in electrochemical evaluation, corrosion-resistant coatings, and sustainable material development. The project will optimize SE isoflavone formulations to enhance corrosion inhibition on carbon steel and validate performance across temperatures and acidic conditions using electrochemical measurements. If successful, this work will deliver a practical, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic inhibitors, driving both farmer revenue and North Dakota’s leadership in sustainable agriculture innovation.

This work focuses on optimizing and formulating a corrosion inhibitor derived from soybean extract (SE) isoflavones to protect carbon steel in acidic media. The specific objectives include: (1) investigating the corrosion inhibition efficiency of SE at varying concentrations and temperatures using electrochemical techniques; (2) examining the individual contributions of key isoflavones—daidzein, genistein, and glycitein—to corrosion inhibition; and (3) employ a systematic design of experiment (DoE) approach to optimize isoflavone blends and study their synergistic interactions for maximum corrosion resistance.

The anticipated deliverables for the proposed project include: (1) obtaining the corrosion inhibition efficiency of SE at varying concentrations and temperatures using electrochemical techniques in acidic medium; (2) the individual contribution of key isoflavones—daidzein, genistein, and glycitein—to corrosion inhibition; and (3) obtaining optimized isoflavone blends and synergistic interactions for maximum corrosion resistance. We anticipate that 1-2 peer-reviewed journal publications will result from this proposed project. The key scientific and theoretical findings will also be presented at a soybean-related research or regional/national conference.

This research presents substantial benefits to North Dakota farmers by creating high-value markets for soybeans through the development of soy-based green corrosion inhibitors. By transforming soybean extracts into eco-friendly additives for green construction and manufacturing sectors, the project promotes soybean demand and profitability. Farmers gain from commercialization opportunities that link their crops to sustainable industrial solutions, fostering direct revenue streams as industries shift toward renewable materials. By advancing NDSC’s mission to diversify soybean utilization, this work translates to increased soybean demand, strengthened global competitiveness, and long-term economic resilience for North Dakota’s farming community.