Corrosion behavior of the low alloy weathering steels coupled with stainless steel in simulated open atmosphere

Abstract

The corrosion behavior of low alloy weathering steels coupled with 316 L stainless steel in simulated open marine atmosphere was investigated. It was found that under alternating of dry and wet conditions, weathering steels alternately occur galvanic corrosion and atmospheric corrosion. Galvanic corrosion, which inhibits micro-cell reaction on weathering steel, produces uniform rust layers. While atmospheric corrosion increases the compactness of rust layers due to enrichment of alloying elements. Coupling is helpful to form protective rust layers for weathering steels, which eventually leads to polarity reversal during galvanic corrosion. The Cr enhances corrosion potential, reduces corrosion rate of weathering steels.