METHODS OF ELECTROCHEMICAL NOISE ANALYSIS FOR INVESTIGATION OF CORROSION PROCESSES

Electrochemical corrosion processes can be investigated by observation of charge flows between the electrolyte and the corroding metal. Usually, the charge flows are observed as spontaneous current and voltage fluctuations (electrochemical noise) in a three-electrode setup. Different types of corrosion processes can be recognized by electrochemical noise analysis. Uniform corrosion rate can be evaluated by estimation of polarization resistance between the metal and electrolyte. Local corrosion events (breakdowns of the passive layer) that produce characteristic transients observed in noise can be detected as well. Different methods of electrochemical noise analysis are presented in a brief review. The limitations and advantages of the proposed methods for corrosion monitoring and research are underlined. The experimental results are also discussed.