Influence of Metal Cations on Corrosion Behavior of Carbon Steel in Model Fresh Water

Effects of metal cations on the corrosion behavior of carbon steel SM490Y in 10 mM Cl- model fresh water were investigated by immersion tests, electrochemical tests, and surface analysis. Immersion tests and electrochemical tests results showed that Zn2+ had a significant inhibition effect on corrosion of SM490Y. The results of EDS and XPS showed that Zn2+ was incorporated in the oxide films by making a strong bond and formed zinc hydroxide or zinc oxide which can cover the surface of carbon steel. It is suggested that Zn2+ forms a protective film which can efficiently prevent break down of surface film by Cl- and inhibit the corrosion.