Article révisé par les pairs
Résumé : | A review is given concerning present knowledge on the thermodynamics and kinetics of electrochemical corrosion in the presence of electrolytes (aqueous solutions, molten salts, etc.) and of gaseous atmospheres. Special emphasis is given to the relationships between theoretical predictions and practical results. A thermodynamic framework for these processes is presented in the form of diagrams of electrochemical equilibira and a bibliography of such diagrams is given. The kinetic aspects of corrosion phenomena may be clarified by means of polarization curves, whose significance is preferably analysed on a thermodynamic basis, with the aid of diagrams of electrochemical equilibria. Examples of such treatments are given for a wide range of corrosion phenomena. Special attention is focused on the significance and on the conditions of validity of diagrams of electrochemical equilibria, as well as on the precautions which should be taken when they are used. The activity of section 22 of the "Commission des Etudes Fondamentales et Applications" (CEFA) of CEBELCOR and of Working Party WP.6 of the "European Federation of Corrosion" devoted to Fundamental Methods of Testing and Control, is described. The scope of these two organizations is to promote a codification of fundamental methods of testing and control related to corrosion. © 1972 Pergamon Press. |