Changes in atmospheric corrosion rate caused by chloride ions depending on rain regime

Plain carbon steel and copper samples were exposed in two atmospheric test stations located in Havana, Cuba and Medellin, Colombia. Samples were submitted to accelerated outdoor test by intermittent spraying of a salt solution (SCAB test) according to ISO 11474:98. A remarkable difference in the acceleration rate of chloride ions for mild steel and copper between Cuban and Colombian stations was determined. Differences in rain amount and frequency between Havana and Medellin are noticeable. The influence of rain seems to be important in determining the acceleration rate of chloride ions on steel and copper due to its washing effect. A model for the influence of the interaction between rain characteristics and chloride deposition rate on mild steel and copper corrosion behaviour with time is proposed. Data fit very well to the proposed model. It is concluded that rain regime should be taken into account in order to determine the real acceleration rate caused by chloride ions in atmospheric conditions. (c) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.