anismall

Brian Martley

Galvanic Series in Sea Water

This page is a bit theoretical in that it shows the relative positions of a series of metals taken in sea water (brine solution) at ambient temperatures. It isn't directly related to all chemical environments, but is an indication of alloy passivity 

No
Corrosion
Platinum
Gold
Cathodic, sometimes referred to as "Noble" Metals in this area do not corrode easily and are immune
Graphite
Silver
Type 316 Stainless steel (Passive)
Type 304 Stainless steel (Passive)
Note the reference to "passive". This means a fully passivated alloy with no breaks in the Chrome oxide film. In this state the alloys are very corrosion resistant
Titanium
Type 410 Stainless steel (Passive)
70-30 Cupro-Nickels
Silicon Bronze
Copper
Brass Alloys (Copper-zinc)
Manganese Bronze
Tin
Lead
Type 316 Stainless steel (Active)
Type 304 Stainless steel (Active)
Type 410 Stainless steel (Active)
Interesting position. Note the difference between the SS in passive and active conditions. Thus if the passive film is problem on a micro scale there will be a high current density between the passive and active areas - hence the high driving rates for pitting attack.
Cast Iron
Carbon Steel (Mild Steel) No surprise here - we all know carbon steel will corrode in salt water !
Aluminium Alloys
Galvanised Steel, Zinc
Rapid
Corrosion
Magnesium Anodic end of the series, sometimes referred to as "Active". Alloys in this area will corrode rapidly

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© Elise FAQ Team 2002