Atmospheric Corrosion of Copper Alloys

Specimens of 18 copper metals were exposed outdoors in four locations for periods of two and seven years. Corrosion damage was assessed by measurement of loss in weight, loss in mechanical properties, and depth of pitting. Weight loss is shown to be the best measure of uniform corrosion. The mean corrosion rate was on the order of 0.05 mils per year (mpy) (1.3 mm/year). Greatest corrosion occurred at the industrial site followed by east coast marine, west coast marine, and the rural site. Nickel improved the atmospheric corrosion resistance of the copper alloys tested. Results are comparable to those obtained in other similar tests.