Mechanically-assisted crevice corrosion and its effect on materials degradation

Mechanically-assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) is a synergistic combination of wear and crevice corrosion. The major differences between tribocorrosion, fretting corrosion and MACC relate to the relative scale of motion and contact area, are clarified in this work. Experimental testing methods for MACC and design of simulation apparatuses are compared and discussed. MACC associated with biomedical alloys used as orthopedic implants, screws, and dental implants has been the subject of most recent research regarding this corrosion mechanism. However, there are also many engineering structures where the pre-requisite conditions for MACC are met but have to date received less scientific scrutiny. Examples are tubes and supportive bars/plates constructions, bolt-type structures and rail track foot covered by fastening systems. Reasonable selection of fretting-resistant materials, proper mounting methods and development of lubricating coating and oil/grease would be effective for mitigating MACC, and it is proposed that surface modification regarding contact geometries and surface compliances may have future promise.