A Summary of Corrosion Properties of Al-Rich Solid Solution and Secondary Phase Particles in Al Alloys

• Main Authors: Jichao Li, Jie Dang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2017-03-01
• Series: Metals
• Subjects: Al alloys; Al-rich solid solution; secondary phase particles; corrosion potential; pitting potential; corrosion rate
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2075-4701/7/3/84

The heterogeneous structure of Al alloys renders them susceptible to localized corrosion due to the different electrochemical properties existing in the Al-rich solid solution matrix and secondary phase particles. The galvanic interactions between these two phases can result in pit formation either through dissolution of the particles or corrosion of the matrix adjacent to the particles. This detrimentally localized corrosion behavior is closely related to the corrosion properties of the particles and the Al-rich matrix. The comprehensive characterization of this behavior under various and varying conditions is critical to understanding the mechanism of pit formation, selecting appropriate inhibitors, and developing protection strategies. The corrosion properties (corrosion potential, pitting potential and corrosion rate) of both secondary phase particles and Al-solid solutions in Al alloys are summarized in this review, aiming to provide a database for corrosion research applicable to the localized corrosion of Al alloys.