Corrosion rates under charge-conservation conditions

Laboratory and numerical corrosion experiments impose an electric potential on the metal surface, differing from natural corrosion conditions, where corrosion typically occurs in the absence of external current sources. In this work, we present a new computational model that enables predicting corrosion under charge -conservation conditions. The metal potential, an output of the model, is allowed to change, capturing how the corrosion and cathodic reactions must produce/consume electrons at the same rates, as in natural conditions. Finite element simulations are performed over a large range of concentrations and geometric parameters. The results highlight the notable influence of the charge-conservation assumption and pioneeringly quantify corrosion rates under realistic conditions. They further show: (i) the strong coupling between the corrosion rate and the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, (ii) under which circumstances corrosion pits acidify, and (iii) when corrosion is able to become self-sustained lacking oxygen.

Automated summary

In this study, a new computational model is proposed to predict corrosion under charge-conservation conditions. The model captures the change in metal potential, reflecting the rates of corrosion and cathodic reactions in natural conditions. Finite element simulations reveal the significant influence of the charge-conservation assumption on corrosion rates and quantify them under realistic conditions. The results further show the strong coupling between corrosion rate and hydrogen/oxygen evolution reactions, the acidification of corrosion pits, and the sustainability of corrosion in the absence of oxygen.