Galvanic Effect and Alternating Current Corrosion of Steel in Acidic Red Soil

Alternating current (AC) corrosion behavior of carbon steel–copper couple in acidic red soil was studied by means of the electrochemical test, mass loss, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization. Mathematical models were established to expound the impacts of AC and galvanic effect on the corrosion mechanism. The results demonstrate that the corrosion rate of the galvanic couple is positively related to AC intensity. Galvanic effect and AC synergistically aggravate the corrosion of steel. The composition of α-FeOOH declines while γ-FeOOH is increased with AC interference. Based on the statistical model, the galvanic effect has a more significant influence on steel corrosion compared with AC.