The rotating cylinder electrode for studies of corrosion engineering and protection of metals-An illustrated review

The uniform flow generated at moderate rotation speeds, controlled mass transport rate and uniform current distribution make the RCE attractive for turbulent flow studies of corrosion and protection. Controlled flow and mass transport are characterised by peripheral velocity and mass transport coefficient. Important aspects in corrosion include metal dissolution, oxygen reduction, stability of surface oxide films and porosity of protective coatings. Computational studies allow fluid flow, current distribution and mass transport to be simulated; multiphase electrolytes and nanofluids have been experimentally studied over the last decade. Diverse uses of the RCE include cathodic protection, corrosion inhibitors and protective coatings.