This study explores the effect of tannic acid on the corrosion of woodworking tool material W18Cr4V in a simulated wood environment. The weight loss method, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used to study the corrosion and the corrosion inhibition process of W18Cr4V in an environment of acetic acid solution with different concentrations of tannic acid. The results show that after continuous immersion for 20 h, low concentrations (1 wt% and 3 wt%) of tannic acid promoted the corrosion of W18Cr4V, while high concentrations (5 wt% and above) of tannic acid had a significant anti-corrosion effect, with a corrosion inhibition efficiency of about 64% for 10 wt% tannic acid. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to further verify and elucidate the inhibition mechanism. It was found that tannic acid can form a dense and effective corrosion inhibition film composed of iron–tannin complexes on the surface of W18Cr4V. This study not only provides a new perspective on understanding the corrosion effect of tannic acid on woodworking tools but also offers new insights for developing effective bio-corrosion protection strategies.

This study systematically reviews the progress of research on the corrosion inhibition effects of organic compounds on carbon steel since 2002, using the CiteSpace bibliometric tool. Through the analysis of 2,264 articles from the WOS (Web of Science) and Scopus databases, our team delved into aspects such as annual publication volume, authors, institutions, countries and keywords which helped identify the current research focus in this field. In particular, the protective efficacy of organic compounds on carbon steel in acidic environments has been highlighted. It is evident that the integration of coating technology, the development of organic compound derivatives and the extraction of green organic compounds have emerged as new research hotspots in this field. This study not only comprehensively evaluates the means and methods of assessing the corrosion inhibition performance of new organic compounds but also further specifies the main directions for future research in this field. These include composite organic coatings, targeted development of new organic compounds, development and application of green organic compounds from plants and corrosion inhibition mechanisms of organic compounds on other metal materials. This study not only provides a thorough and in-depth review of the history and current status of this field but, more importantly, clarifies specific directions for future research in this area. The aim of this research is to provide strong theoretical support and practical guidance for subsequent researchers, promoting future development of this field.