Relationship between electrochemical reaction processes and environment-assisted crack growth under static and dynamic atmospheric conditions

Abstract

Environment-assisted cracking (EAC) of aluminum alloys in corrosive atmospheres is an important maintenance and safety issue for aerospace structures. EAC initiation and propagation are influenced by the interaction of load, environment, and alloy properties. For atmospheric corrosion, environmental conditions are dynamic; where temperature, relative humidity, and surface contaminants interact to control thin film electrolyte properties. Recent studies have determined that stage II stress corrosion crack (SCC) propagation, under atmospheric conditions is strongly dependent on humidity. SCC propagation in AA5083 and AA7075 alloys is a maximum during drying processes at intermediate humidity levels at or below the deliquescence relative humidity (DRH) for the applied corrosive salt. An improved understanding of the dependence of cracking on atmospheric conditions is important to testing material performance, establishing durable designs, and managing structural integrity. Please click Additional Files below to see the full abstract

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