Effect of Applied Electric Fields on the Mechanisms of Oxidation of Metals and Alloys

摘要

The effect of an applied electric field on oxidation/hot corrosion was investigated in a molten salt of Na2SO4 and in a salt seeded propane air flame. Nichrome metal strips were used in the investigation of the effect of applied electric fields on corrosion. Marked reduction on the level of corrosion was demonstrated with the anodic electrode in the salt bath at a threshold applied current level of 1.39 ma/sq. The chromium content of the alloy appears to play a critical role in promoting the anodic protection, nickel alone is insufficient. An effect of an applied electric field on corrosion in a salt seeded flame was observed. At the anode, scanning electron probe measurements verify that the oxide ion loses electrons and hence the oxide activity is reduced relative to the sulfur activity. (Author)