Atmospheric corrosion mechanism of 316 stainless steel in simulated marine atmosphere

The evolution of atmospheric corrosion of 316 stainless steel subjected to a simulated marine atmosphere was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The results indicate that the initiation of pits is associated with the dissolution of MnS inclusion; the maximum pit depth of 316 stainless steel increased in linear relationship with the extension of corrosion time; the corrosion products possess more hydroxide; the ratio of [Cr]/{[Cr]+[Fe]} in the corrosion products gradually increases with increasing time. The protective ability of corrosion products formed on 316 stainless steel has also been discussed.