Me Theory
Me Theory
Me Theory
Uniform Attack:
Uniform attack is a form of electrochemical corrosion that occurs with equivalent
intensity over the entire exposed surface and often leaves behind a scale or
deposit. In a microscopic sense, the oxidation and reduction reactions occur
randomly over the surface. Familiar examples include general rusting of steel and
iron and the tarnishing of silverware. This is probably the most common form of
corrosion.
Galvanic Corrosion:
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two metals or alloys having different
compositions are electrically coupled while exposed to an electrolyte. The less
noble or more reactive metal in the particular environment experiences
corrosion; the more inert metal, the cathode, is protected from corrosion. As
examples, steel screws corrode when in contact with brass in a marine
environment.
A number of measures may be taken to reduce the effects of galvanic corrosion
significantly, including the following: 1. If coupling of dissimilar metals is
necessary, choose two that are close together in the galvanic series. 2. Avoid an
unfavorable anode-to-cathode surface area ratio; use an anode area as large as
possible. 3. Electrically insulate dissimilar metals from each other. 4. Electrically
connect a third, anodic metal to the other two; this is a form of cathodic
protection.
Crevice Corrosion:
Crevice corrosion refers to the attack of metal surfaces by a stagnant solution in
crevices, for example around the edges of nuts and rivet heads. When dust, sand
and other corrosive substances are deposited on surfaces, they create an
environment where water will accumulate and corrode the part. It can happen
between two metals or between a metal and a nonmetal. This causes damage to
the metallic part, which is initiated by the concentration gradient in chemicals.
Crevice corrosion may be prevented by using welded instead of riveted or bolted
joints, using non-absorbing gaskets when possible and removing accumulated
deposits frequently
Pitting:
Pitting is another form of very localized corrosion attack in which small pits or
holes form. They ordinarily penetrate from the top of a horizontal surface
downward in a nearly vertical direction. e. It is supposed that gravity causes the
pits to grow downward. A pit may be initiated by a localized surface defect such
as a scratch or a slight variation in composition. In fact, it has been observed that
specimens having polished surfaces display a greater resistance to pitting
corrosion.
Intergranular Corrosion:
Intergranular corrosion is like a sneak attack on metal. Instead of attacking the
metal's surface, it goes after the boundaries between metal grains. Imagine metal
as a bunch of tiny crystals, and intergranular corrosion corrodes the edges where
these crystals meet. This type of corrosion can weaken the structure from within
without showing many signs on the surface. This type of corrosion is especially
prevalent in some stainless steels.
Selective Leaching:
Selective leaching is found in solid solution alloys and occurs when one element
or constituent is preferentially removed as a consequence of corrosion processes.
The most common example is the dezincification of brass, in which zinc is
selectively leached from a copper–zinc brass alloy. The mechanical properties of
the alloy are significantly impaired because only a porous mass of copper remains
in the region that has been dezincified.
Erossion Corrosion:
It occurs when the constant movement of liquids, like water or gas, wears down
the surface of metals over time. The flowing liquid speeds up the corrosion
process, causing gradual damage. Pipes or metal surfaces in contact with fast-
flowing fluids are often prone to erosion corrosion.
Stress Corrosion:
It happens when the metal is both stressed and in contact with corrosive
substances, like salty water or chemicals. The combination of stress and the
corrosive environment makes the metal more vulnerable to corrosion, leading to
cracks and deterioration.
Hydrogen Embrittlement:
When metals, especially strong ones like steel, absorb hydrogen, they become
brittle and can break easily. It happens during processes like plating or corrosion
where hydrogen gets into the metal structure. The trapped hydrogen interferes
with the metal's internal structure, making it weaker and prone to sudden
fractures, even under normal stress. Preventing hydrogen embrittlement involves
carefully controlling processes to limit hydrogen exposure and choosing materials
less susceptible to this issue.