Effect of sulphate on the corrosion behavior of bronze under a chloride‐containing thin electrolyte layer

Abstract

The effect of sulphate on the corrosion behavior of bronze under a chloride‐containing thin electrolyte layer (TEL) during wet–dry cycles has been studied by means of in situ electrochemical techniques and ex situ physical characterization. In the initial stage, corrosion rates of bronze under a chloride‐containing TEL decrease in the presence of sulphate, due to the fact that pit corrosion is inhibited by the sulphate. After long‐term exposure, however, corrosion rates are accelerated by sulphate addition, implying a synergistic effect between these components. This synergistic effect is ascribed to inhibition of the formation of protective Pb‐containing products by sulphate.