The effect of sulfide on the corrosion behavior of carbon steel in natural waters

Abstract

Purpose

To study the corrosion behavior and discuss the corrosion mechanism of No. 20 carbon steel in water in the presence of sulfide ions.

Design/methodology/approach

The mass‐loss method, electrochemical tests and surface analysis were used to study the corrosion behavior and discuss the corrosion mechanism of No. 20 carbon steel in water in the presence of sulfide ions.

Findings

General corrosion occurred when No. 20 carbon steel was immersed in both test solutions (concentrated sample with S²⁻ added to 0.8 mg/L, and pure concentrated sample with no S²⁻ added). The presence of S²⁻ in test solutions accelerated the corrosion rate of No. 20 carbon steel.

Practical implications

In order to prevent No. 20 carbon steel in water with S²⁻ from corroding, S²⁻ must be removed.

Originality/value

It was found that the presence of S²⁻ in test solutions accelerated the corrosion rate of No. 20 carbon steel in this paper. Therefore, when water containing sulfide ions is used as the source of make‐up water and cooling water, S²⁻ in water must be removed to prevent the pipelines and facilities from corroding. This means the research results can offer theoretical guidelines for the prevention of pipelines and facilities in the power plant from corroding.

Citation

Xuejun, X., Wanqin, Y., Shunan, C., Ling, P., Xunjie, G. and Keru, P. (2005), "The effect of sulfide on the corrosion behavior of carbon steel in natural waters", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 52 No. 3, pp. 145-147. https://doi.org/10.1108/00035590510595120