Review—The Use of Localized Electrochemical Techniques for Corrosion Studies

Abstract

While global electrochemical techniques, such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), have been utilized in corrosion and coatings research for over forty years, the refinement of those techniques into localized methods is a more recent development. In this review, in honor of Hugh Isaacs, the authors have focused on developments in localized methods of importance to corrosion research. Receiving special attention in the review are the following methods: Scanning Vibrating Electrode Technique (SVET), Localized Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (LEIS), Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (SECM), Scanning Kelvin Probe (SKP), Scanning Ion-Selective Electrode Technique (SIET), and Scanning Droplet Cell (SDC) Technique. For each method, a summary of the method along with several examples of its use in the area of corrosion and coatings are provided. Additionally, synergies with electro-microimaging techniques are discussed which highlights the often complex experimental designs required to probe the mechanisms of corrosion.