In situ ICP-MS analysis of passivation process and selective dissolution of Fe-15Cr alloy in sulfuric acid
Masashi Nishimoto, Jan Philipp Kollender, Izumi Muto, Achim Walter Hassel
Abstract
The dissolution of Fe-15Cr alloy during potentiodynamic polarization in sulfuric acid was quantified in situ using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The potential dependence of the very low dissolution rates of Fe and Cr in the passive state was characterized. The selective dissolution of Fe was observed in the lower passive potential range, while Cr dissolved preferentially in the higher passive potential range. The discrepancy between the polarization curve and current from the Fe and Cr dissolution in the passive state was attributed to the formation of a passive film. The calculated film thickness was on the order of nanometers. • Fe-15Cr alloy dissolution during polarization in sulfuric acid was investigated by ICP-MS. • Low dissolution rates of Fe and Cr in the passive state were experimentally quantified. • The selective dissolution of Fe and Cr during polarization was characterized. • The calculated passive film thickness was in the order of nanometers.