A numerical analysis of the mechano-electrochemical effects on localised corrosion in pipelines using a multi-physical field coupling approach

Abstract

In this study, we used a multi-physics coupling approach integrating the electrochemical and solid mechanics fields to develop a three-dimensional finite element model. This model was specifically designed to investigate the effects of mechano-electrochemical (M-E) effects on pipeline corrosion. The boundary conditions for the finite element simulation were established using experimental data, enabling the model to effectively predict the corrosion potential and current density, which aligned well with the experimental findings. Subsequently, the validated model was applied to examine the M-E effects near the pipe corrosion defects, considering various depths of corrosion defects and axial strain. Our results indicate that the stress concentration at the core of the defect increases with increasing axial tensile strain and deepening corrosion. The investigation of the correlation between the corrosion potential and net current density revealed that mechanical forces significantly impact metal corrosion rates, thus influencing pipeline longevity. When the metal structure of the pipeline is deformed within the elastic deformation range, the impact of the M-E effects on corrosion is minimal. However, when a tensile strain is applied or the defect geometry induces plastic deformation at the defect site, a notable increase in the local corrosion activity is observed.