WHO RUSTS FIRST: REVISITING GALVANIC CORROSION

Galvanic corrosion has been a subject of study for over 200 years, yet misconceptions persist regarding its fundamental principles. This paper revisits the concept, explaining that galvanic corrosion occurs when dissimilar metals are electrically connected in a common electrolyte, where the more active metal undergoes corrosion while the more noble metal is protected. The objective is to clarify the factors impacting the severity of galvanic action, which extend beyond electrochemical potential to include area ratio, surface conditions of the noble metal, and environmental conditions. Employing a historical lens, the paper reviews significant past studies, detailing how these factors interplay to affect corrosion behavior. Investigations indicate that predictive models based solely on the Galvanic Series can be misleading, suggesting the need for a more nuanced understanding of galvanic behavior. Results imply that a comprehensive approach to assessing galvanic corrosion can lead to better mitigation strategies in practical applications. Overall, the insights provided aim to enhance the understanding of galvanic corrosion dynamics and contribute to improved corrosion management practices.