Investigation of the Electrochemical Corrosion Property of 2xxx Series Cast Aluminium Alloy in 0.3 M, 0.6 M NaCl, and Seawater Environments

Abstract

The electrochemical corrosion activities of 2xxx series Al alloys were investigated in NaCl of 0.3 M, and 0.6 M concentrations and seawater environments. Both Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods were followed to analyze the corrosion behavior. These results implied that corrosive attack is more aggressive in sodium chloride solution compared to seawater, as additional elements present in seawater are involved in forming various protective layers. Again, a higher concentration of NaCl solution damaged the alloy surface more drastically. The open circuit potential moved towards the nobler direction in the case of seawater environment, and 0.3 M solution for NaCl. The corrosion rate and corrosion current showed higher values in NaCl solution than in seawater. The surface morphologies of the alloys were characterized not only with an optical microscope but with a scanning electron microscope also. The scratch marks from polishing were removed after corrosion. Extensive damage to the surface was found in the NaCl environment, where 0.6 M solution created the most damage, which is evident by both optical and scanning electron micrography. A higher level of pitting corrosion occurred in NaCl than in seawater, identified by SEM images.