The pitting corrosion of copper

To solve or prevent copper pitting problems, it is first necessary to achieve a clearer understanding of copper corrosion theory, parts of which are currently not supported by practical experience. Some current theories of copper pitting are contradicted by practical experience. Although it has been theorized that chloride initiates copper pitting attack, simple experiments show that the presence of chloride ion actually tends to decrease the likelihood that pitting will occur. In contrast, sulfate plays no role in pitting theory, yet sulfate has consistently demonstrated a propensity to initiate and propagate copper pitting. New theories are required to reconcile pitting theory and practical observation in order to allow the rational mitigation of copper pitting problems. In addition, the presence of natural organic matter (NOM) in water supplies prevents or inhibits certain copper corrosion problems. As a result, recent efforts to remove NOM as a means of controlling disinfection by‐products may lead to increased copper corrosion problems.