Corrosion inhibition of carbon steel structures in acidic environments is imperative across various sectors. This study investigated a novel epoxy resin, bisphenol A tetrabromo dipropoxy dianiline tetraglycidyl ether (TGEDADPTBBA), as an new hybrid epoxy/Br inhibitor for E24 carbon steel corrosion in 1.0 M hydrochloric acid using multi-pronged experimental and theoretical methods. Potentiodynamic polarization revealed TGEDADPTBBA acted as a mixed-type inhibitor, achieving 95–97% inhibition efficiency at 10− 3 M. EIS showed TGEDADPTBBA suppressed charge transfer resistance, implying decreased corrosion rate. EFM provided additional evidence of inhibition via reduced corrosion current density, diffusion impedance, and corrosion rate. TGEDADPTBBA's adsorption on steel followed the Langmuir isotherm, indicating a maximum monolayer. SEM/EDS showed TGEDADPTBBA formed a protective film inhibiting elemental dissolution. Quantum chemical calculations and molecular dynamics simulations were synergized to gain molecular-level insight. Electron density mapping revealed TGEDADPTBBA's heteroatoms served as adsorption sites. Dynamics revealed bioinspired intermolecular chemical and Van der Waals interactions facilitated stable layer formation. Energetically, TGEDADPTBBA adsorption was favorable. Collectively, this multi-pronged study employing polymer science, surface science, and computational chemistry demonstrated TGEDADPTBBA's broad applicability as a corrosion inhibitor for E24 carbon steel infrastructure. In particular, TGEDADPTBBA's synergistic performance in inhibiting charge transfer, diffusion, and film formation positions it as a green and cost-effective alternative to toxic chromates.