Nano-scale dissolution phenomena in Al-Cu-Mg alloys

N. Birbilis, M. K. Cavanaugh, L. Kovarik, R. G. Buchheit

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

85 Scopus citations

Abstract

Localized corrosion of aluminum alloys is a major issue worldwide and in spite of decades of work, several questions still remain unresolved. In this study we focus on key issues in the context of localized corrosion of Al-Cu-Mg/Al-Mg-Cu alloys that have not been adequately addressed. By careful electrochemical exposure along with high-resolution electron microscopy, we reveal that microstructural features down to a few nanometers in size can behave as unique electrochemical entities. In addition, not only is this critical to emerging damage accumulation models, but we also reveal that significant dissolution can occur at potentials below the breakdown potential of the bulk alloy. This work has potentially wide consequences in the interpretation of Al alloy corrosion and alloys design for corrosion resistance.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)32-37
Number of pages6
JournalElectrochemistry Communications
Volume10
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2008

Keywords

  • 2XXX series
  • 5XXX series
  • Aluminum alloys
  • Corrosion
  • Impedance
  • TEM

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrochemistry

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