Mechanism of incipient annular corrosion of high-tin bronze in simulated soil solution

ABSTRACT The mechanism of Cu–Sn–Pb bronze (18.2 wt-% Sn) in a simulated soil solution was examined using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, scanning Kelvin probe, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and electrochemical techniques. The findings demonstrated that the α-phase possessed a more negative corrosion potential, and the central annular position was more active owing to the difference in the solid-solution tin content during casting. Cl− was not directly involved in the production of corrosive products in the early stage of corrosion, but it damaged the copper oxide layer and promoted the loss of copper ions. Subsequently, the tin oxide was gradually produced on the surface, and the selective copper dissolution led to abundant tin compounds on the surface.