Microelectrode Investigation on the Corrosion Initiation at Lead-Brass Galvanic Interfaces in Chlorinated Drinking Water.

Abstract

In this study, the effects of pH, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and flow on changes in surface chemistry (pH, dissolved oxygen, and free chlorine) of lead-brass joints at initial stages of corrosion were investigated using microelectrodes. Surface measurements showed that the water chemistry at the metal surfaces was highly heterogeneous. At pH 7 and during water stagnation, local pH difference between anodic (leaded-solder) and cathodic (brass) regions differed by as much as 7.5 pH units. High DIC water under the water flowing condition showed minimal pH changes on the surface, whereas in low DIC water, a pH range of 7.6-5.4 (ΔpH 2.2) was observed over the surface. Free chlorine consumption near the lead-brass surface was greater under stagnation, regardless of bulk pH. It was also found that flow can move the low pH plume that originated at the anode. Overall, this study provides direct evidence for highly localized galvanic corrosion in a chlorinated drinking water environment.