Tuning the pH‐responsiveness capability of poly(acrylic acid‐co‐itaconic acid)/NaOH hydrogel: Design, swelling, and rust removal evaluation

ABSTRACT The swelling behavior of poly(acrylic acid‐co‐itaconic acid)/NaOH hydrogel as well as its ability for iron and copper rust removal was studied and established for the first time. Through an experimental design, the influence of the synthesis parameters on hydrogel response was determined. It was found that pH‐responsiveness dependence of hydrogel determines its application. In alkaline media, the hydrogel acted as superabsorbent, while in acidic, the most outstanding property was its pickling capability that allowed to clean carbon steel and copper metallic surfaces. Infrared, thermogravimetry, and scanning electron microscopy were performed to determine copolymer formation, thermal properties, and morphology. Metallic crystallographic phases formed during the corrosion processes were determined by X‐ray diffractometer. Hydrogel adhesiveness followed by diffusion and dissolution of metal oxides species was identified as the main steps in the rust removal mechanism. This method offers a new, environmentally friendly perspective to eliminate corrosion from metallic surfaces compared with traditional strategies. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48403. Poly(acrylic acid‐co‐itaconic acid)/NaOH hydrogel is developed for rust removal on carbon steel and copper surfaces. The influence of the synthesis parameters on hydrogel swelling and rust removal capabilities are determined by using an experimental design. Hydrogel adhesion and metal dissolution are identified as the primary steps in the removal mechanism. This method offers an environmentally friendly perspective compared with traditional strategies.