Visualisation of the Galvanic Effects at Welds on Carbon Steel

Non-destructive classical techniques, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and open circuit potential (OCP) measurement, were complemented with advanced techniques, including the scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET) and localised electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (LEIS) to examine galvanic effects at welds on carbon steel. The classical techniques indicated that corrosion processes are accelerated in the weld. The advanced techniques revealed admittance values related to more severe corrosion along the weld than in the base metal and higher corrosion currents in the weld. When the weld and base metal are electrically connected, the weld serves as a cathodic protector for the base metal. © 2015 Sociedade Brasileira de Química.