[Effects of skeletal muscle proteins on corrosion of stainless steels].

The corrosion behavior of AISI 304 and AISI 316 stainless steels and a steel that matches the requirements of the ASTM Standard F-138 of possible use in traumatology, was studied in the presence of skeletal muscle proteins. The investigation was carried out using potentiodynamics polarization measurements and cyclic polarization, using a fluid of the same protein and salt composition than skeletal muscle. To evaluate the effect of the proteins, the tests were performed with and without the addition of proteins to the cellular fluid at 37 degrees C. The electrochemical assays revealed a negative effect of proteins on pitting corrosion, according to the quality of the steel used to carry out the assays; the most resistant being the AISI 316L and the F-138. In the presence of proteins scanning electron microscopy (SEM) carried out after cyclic polarization revealed a mixed layer, formed by oxides and proteins stuck to the metal surface. This layer seems to be a more unstable passive layer than the corresponding one formed in the absence of proteins. The Tafel plot in the presence of proteins revealed that the corrosion mechanism was controlled by diffusional process. The results with respect to pitting corrosion were similar to those obtained in marine environments.