Experimental measurement and computer simulation of galvanic corrosion of magnesium coupled to steel

The galvanic corrosion of magnesium alloys is investigated with respect to its use in auto and aerospace industries. Galvanic corrosion is most important for magnesium as it is the most active structural metal and suffers serious corrosion when joined to other metals of construction such as aluminum or steel. Total corrosion in the area of galvanic corrosion is made up of two components: galvanic corrosion and self corrosion, galvanic corrosion is caused by the coupling of magnesium to a steel fastner and self corrosion is defined as the extra corrosion. Both the corrosions may take the form of general corrosion, localized corrosion or pitting corrosion. The effect of electrolytes on the galvanic corrosion of magnesium was studied and the influence of the electrolyte involves various factors such as pH, composition, concentration of the ion, and the conductivity of the electrolytes.