Electrochemistry: corrosion

Phenomenological and theoretical study of the basic principles of electrochemical corrosion. Awareness of corrosion-stress coupling problems.

Introduction to corrosion
Reminders of metallurgy
Principle of wet corrosion

Equilibrium potential (Nernst classification)
Mixed potential, galvanic series
Electrochemical cell


Different types of corrosion

Generalized corrosion: Polarization curves (passivating metals, stainless steel), Tafel straight lines
Localized corrosion: Crevice corrosion, pitting corrosion, intergranular corrosion, stress corrosion, hydrogen embrittlement


Thermodynamics applied to wet corrosion

Potential -pH diagram (=Pourbaix diagrams)


Corrosion protection

Construction of the diagram, interpretation of the diagram with respect to corrosion
Prevention by means of a suitable form
Protection by coating
Protection by inhibitors
Cathodic protection

Physical and Analytical Chemistry