Modelling of galvanic corrosion based on potentiodynamic polarisation measurements under a thin layer of electrolyte

Výzkumný a zkušební letecký ústav, a.s. – Testing Laboratories, Beranových 130, Prague 199 05, Czech Republic
jenicek@vzlu.cz

Received: 7 October 2014
Accepted: 24 March 2015

Abstract

Galvanic corrosion of a structural detail of an aircraft covered with a thin film of electrolyte was modelled using corrosion software.Potentiodynamic polarisation measurements were performed in a specially designed electrochemical cell to gain input data for the software. Comparison between the results of the modelling and corrosion damage to a fabricated structural detail subjected to a neutral salt spray test showed qualitative agreement. The usefulness of corrosion modelling was confirmed. However, it is also demonstrated that accurate determination of the input parameters characterising the corrosion system is necessary. Thus, useful application of the presented modelling approach requires a corrosion engineering background. Modelling of galvanic corrosion provides substantial information about suitable material choice of newly designed structures and can reveal critical parts of mechanical constructions regarding their corrosion durability.