Breakdown of metal passivation layers

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the breakdown of metal passivation layers, specifically focusing on aluminum foil and platinum wire in an ionic solution under an applied voltage. Participants explore the theoretical and experimental aspects of corrosion processes and the removal of aluminum oxide.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, Tom, inquires about the voltage required to remove aluminum oxide and the kinetics involved before aluminum corrosion begins.
  • Another participant suggests that the numerous unknown factors make a theoretical approach challenging and advocates for experimental methods instead.
  • Tom expresses interest in identifying metal oxides that are likely to be effective for passivation without needing to test every option.
  • A participant questions the criteria for determining the "best" materials for passivation, seeking clarification on what "best" means in this context.
  • Tom clarifies that he is looking for materials that are optimal for passivating electrodes in ionic solutions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the theoretical versus experimental approaches to understanding the breakdown of passivation layers, and the criteria for selecting the best materials remains contested.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific definitions for "best" materials and the dependence on various unknown factors that complicate theoretical analysis.

Who May Find This Useful

Researchers and practitioners interested in electrochemistry, materials science, and corrosion engineering may find this discussion relevant.

Excom
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Hi All

I hope that someone where can help me out.

Let's assume that we take a piece of Al foil and a Pt wire and put them into an ionic solution. We then apply a voltage difference of 2 V between the two. Al(+) and Pt(-). After a few seconds the Al electrode starts to corrode. Nothing new about that but can anyone tell me what happens before the corrosion starts? I assume that the aluminum oxide is being removed. I am interested in figuring out what voltage that is needed to remove the aluminum oxide. And the kinetics of it.

If this can be described in a theoretical manner I will prefer that as I would like to compare different metal oxides at different voltages.

Thanks

Best regards
Tom
 
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Way too many unknown factors for a theoretical treatment, experiments are a way to go.
 
Okay, thanks.

Instead of testing every metal oxide there must be a way of finding those oxides that are most likely to be the best.

Any idea of how to this?
 
Excom said:
to be the best

In what sense?
 
I want to find the best materials for passivating electrodes in ionic solutions.
 

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