Determination of Bimetallic Corrosion Risk Using an Electrochemical Method

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate (simulation of environment for salt treatment of roads in winter and the simulation of the environment of condensed exhaust gas) the galvanic corrosion phenomena which can exist in the construction coupling of cars. The electrochemical behaviour of the hot dip galvanized steel and aluminium alloy, stainless steel and aluminium alloy and stainless steel and silumin which were investigated by electrochemical methods in 3 % NaCl solution and in SEG solution. The open corrosion potential measurement was used to obtain the values of the potential for each couple. The measurement showed a greater bimetallic risk for hot dip galvanized steel with aluminium alloy, where there was ΔESCE > 500 mV and this couple is not suitable either for use in aggressive environment. Calculation of the rate of corrosion attack results from the determination of corrosion currents as measured by Taffel and Evans. The extent of corrosion damage was analysed by means of a light microscope. Keywords: bimetallic; aluminium alloy; stainless steel; silumin; exhaust gas; corrosion potential; electrochemical method;