The Effects of Cryogenic Treatment on the Corrosion of AISI D3 Steel

It is well known that cryogenic treatment is used to improve the mechanical properties of a material. Consequently, the use of cryogenic treatment has grown beyond its successful application on tool steels. In this research, the effects of cryogenic treatment on the corrosion of AISI D3 steel in 3.5% NaCl solution were examined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The surface structure of the AISI D3 steel was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after the EIS investigations. Results clearly indicated that the pre-treatment of the steel was responsible for a significant effect on corrosion. The heat treatment process prior to the cryogenic treatment and the tempering process after were shown to decrease corrosion resistance.