Laccase-catalyzed synthesis of aniline oligomers and their application for the protection of copper against corrosion

A new method for the enzymatic synthesis of oligoaniline soluble in organic solutions is developed. The high-redox potential laccase from the fungus Trametes hirsuta is used as a biocatalyst and atmospheric oxygen serves as oxidant. Aniline oligomers showed a high inhibition of copper corrosion in aqueous HCl and NaCl solutions.