Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
In this case, sacrificial anodes work as part of a galvanic couple, promoting corrosion of the anode, while protecting the cathode metal. In other cases, such as mixed metals in piping (for example, copper, cast iron and other cast metals), galvanic corrosion will contribute to accelerated corrosion of parts of the system.
In brief, corrosion is a chemical reaction occurring by an electrochemical mechanism (a redox reaction). [1] During corrosion of iron or steel there are two reactions, oxidation (equation 1), where electrons leave the metal (and the metal dissolves, i.e. actual loss of metal results) and reduction, where the electrons are used to convert oxygen and water to hydroxide ions (equation 2): [2]
The galvanic series (or electropotential series) determines the nobility of metals and semi-metals. When two metals are submerged in an electrolyte, while also electrically connected by some external conductor, the less noble (base) will experience galvanic corrosion. The rate of corrosion is determined by the electrolyte, the difference in ...
Over time the galvanic anode continues to corrode, consuming the anode material until eventually it must be replaced. Galvanic or sacrificial anodes are made in various shapes and sizes using alloys of zinc, magnesium, and aluminum. ASTM International publishes standards on the composition and manufacturing of galvanic anodes. [10] [11] [12]
In both a galvanic cell and an electrolytic cell, the anode is the electrode at which the oxidation reaction occurs. In a galvanic cell the anode is the wire or plate having excess negative charge as a result of the oxidation reaction. In an electrolytic cell, the anode is the wire or plate upon which excess positive charge is imposed. [2]
Galvanized steel can last for many decades if other supplementary measures are maintained, such as paint coatings and additional sacrificial anodes. Corrosion in non-salty environments is caused mainly by levels of sulfur dioxide in the air. [10]
Sacrificial metals are widely used to prevent other metals from corroding: for example in galvanised steel. [3] Many steel objects are coated with a layer of zinc, which is more electronegative than iron, and thus oxidises in preference to the iron, preventing the iron from rusting. [4]
For example, zinc is often used as a sacrificial anode for steel structures. Galvanic corrosion is of major interest to the marine industry and also anywhere water (containing salts) contacts pipes or metal structures. Factors such as relative size of anode, types of metal, and operating conditions (temperature, humidity, salinity, etc.) affect ...