Tests designed to provide fundamental information explaining the behavior of galvanic couples in the atmosphere are reported. The purpose is to permit prediction of their probable relative behavior. Measurements of weight losses of couples in a marine, an industrial and a severe tropical atmosphere are reported.
Tests involving thin sheet electrode material separated by filter paper saturated with electrolyte are reported. Materials tested include aluminum, magnesium, stainless steel, copper, cadmium, zinc, nickel, tin, chromium, lead electroplate, silver, low carbon steel and others. Potential measurements and weight loss data are given. Specimens exposed to the atmospheres show several apparent weight loss anomalies.
Measurements of corrosion currents described provide a quick means for determining probable relative corrosion behavior of couples. Differences between couples “exposed” and “sheltered” are noted. Quantitative data provided are intended to be useful to the design engineer.
