“…In infrastructure and construction projects, the deterioration of steel reinforcement in concrete frameworks can lead to structural failures, requiring extensive repairs and replacements ( Al-gorair et al, 2024 ; Li et al, 2024 ). Mild steel, with its widespread use in several applications including construction, automotive, infrastructure, transportation, etc., is particularly susceptible to corrosion in acidic environments ( Cui et al, 2024 ; Dahmani et al, 2024 ). This vulnerability is a global concern, affecting industries in diverse geographical regions.…”