Galvanic corrosion interactions of zinc and SS.304 in the tropical marine atmosphere of Mandapam

The galvanic corrosion interactions of zinc and SS.304 have been studied in a tropical marine environment over a period of 427 days, under different area ratios. The galvanic interaction of zinc and SS.304 are highlighted in terms of the corrosion rate of zinc or SS.304 resulting from galvanic coupling, and the susceptibility of zinc to pitting due to galvanic corrosion. The galvanic potential and galvanic current of the system are monitored. The corrosion products at the interface of the bimetallic contacts are analysed with XRD technique and the pitting/grooving on zinc resulting from galvanic corrosion is measured using a high resolution microscope. The weathering parameters and environmental pollutants are monitored to give an insight into the possible means of favouring the galvanic interactions. The results of the study are discussed in the light of the above factors towards predicting a mechanism for the galvanic interactions of zinc and SS.304.