Objective To explore the antirust performance and optimize formulation of homemade rust inhibitor prepared using oleamide as an antirust additive. Methods Environment friendly corrosion inhibitor water-soluble silicate was used as the main raw material and surfactant of amide type as the additive to prepare inter-process water-based rust inhibitor. The performance was evaluated by electrochemical test, weathering test, and scanning electron microscopy, etc. Results Electrochemical test results showed that the corrosion current density of the steel coated with the homemade rust inhibitor decreased to 9. 12×10-7 A/ cm2, while the corrosion potential increased to -0. 4206 V. Conclusion Compared with commercial rust inhibitor, the water-based rust inhibitor prepared with oleamide as additive could significantly improve the corrosion resistance of carbon steel.