The ‘mystery’ of cathodic corrosion protection clarified

(Photo: ETHZ)

June 5, 2024 – Corrosion is a chemical reaction that affects even the strongest structures. Metals such as steel react with oxygen and water, causing them to rust and decay. Cathodic protection plays a key role in combating corrosion. It protects steel structures by slowing down or preventing the processes that lead to corrosion.

Cathodic protection was first described in a scientific context in England two centuries ago and has since played a valuable role in maintaining modern infrastructure such as underground gas pipelines and reinforced concrete structures. However, despite its widespread use, the underlying working principle behind cathodic protection has remained unclear and controversial. In fact, how exactly it works is a subject of discussion among experts. Researchers from the Swiss ETHZ (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zurich) have now developed a mechanism that resolves the apparent contradictions between previous hypotheses and theories. According to ETHZ, the findings are important in the context of aging infrastructure and can help improve corrosion protection and harmonize current, sometimes conflicting standards.

The research was published earlier this year in Communications Materials.

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