Corrosion study of SS304 and SS316 alloys in atmospheric, underground and seawater splash zone in the Arabian Gulf

Bare stainless steel type 304 and 316 alloys were exposed to atmospheric, underground and seawater splash conditions in order to evaluate their corrosion properties. The exposure was undertaken for 15 months at the coastal and industrial city of Jubail located in the Arabian Gulf. The corrosivity of the environment was determined by testing the soil, groundwater, seawater and air quality. Corrosion rate of the exposed coupons was determined by weight loss method. The experimental results indicate that the both types of stainless steels corroded moderately in this environment. Primary factors influencing the corrosion process are thought to be high degree of variation in temperature and humidity combined with high chloride and sulphate concentrations. The corrosion rate of stainless steel is also compared with those reported for other international locations.