Corrosion behavior of Cu–40Zn alloy in a periodic service between simulating atmospheric and deep sea environment

Abstract

Abstract The corrosion behavior of Cu–40Zn alloy in a periodic service between simulating atmospheric and deep sea environment has been systematically studied. Results showed that a layer of protective corrosion products can be formed quickly and become defective over time. During the periodic service, the HP (high hydrostatic pressure) promotes the anodic dissolution of the base and the generation of (Cu, Zn)2(OH)3Cl, which causes expansion of the corrosion products; the AP (alternating pressure) facilitates the wetting process during dry to wet stage, and the alternating force caused by AP leads to the cracks, peeling off of the corrosion products. Severe intergranular corrosion takes place, which initiates at the β phase and is accelerated by the combination of defective corrosion products and the drying stage.