Corrosion of aluminum for beverage packaging in acidic media containing chlorides and copper ions

Corrosion of aluminum packaging plays an important role concerning economic and health issues. The effect of aggressive ions on the behavior of the AA3104-H19 alloy provides knowledge to the food and packaging industries to improve materials and also minimizes losses associated with the corrosion. This study evaluated the interaction of the AA3104-H19 alloy and beverage using model solutions containing chloride and copper at levels close to those found in soft drinks. The results show changes in the material at very low ion concentrations, as well as the synergistic effect of both ions in the solution. Practical applicationsCorrosion of soft drink aluminum cans is a severe industrial problem that results in huge losses of food and material, having important financial and environmental impacts. Information about the corrosion electrochemical behavior of aluminum alloys used for food and beverage is very scarce. This study evaluated the interaction of the AA3104-H19 alloy and model solutions containing chloride and copper at levels close to those found in soft drinks. The obtained results will allow researchers to better understand the interaction between beverages and packaging, also improving the packaging materials (metal and polymeric coating) to be used in contact with soft drinks. It also helps the industry to better design both packaging and products.