Multi-phase-field modeling of localized corrosion involving galvanic pitting and mechano-electrochemical coupling

A new multi-phase-field (multi-PF) model is proposed to study a complex localized corrosion process that involves mechano-electrochemical coupling, anodic dissolution, insoluble depositions (IDs) formation, and resulted Galvanic-pitting corrosion. Based on a quantitative investigation into the effects of Cl⁻ concentration, pH value, mechanical loading, and electric field, we reveal the autocatalytic process of pitting assisted by increasingly aggressive chemical environment and concentrated stress and study how the external electric field can arrest assisted corrosion and prolong service lifetime. The proposed model can be a useful tool for the lifetime management of metallic components serving in ocean or other more aggressive environments.