On the Estimation of the Corrosion Rates of Metals in Soils by Electrochemical Measurements

Studies are described to characterize soil aggressivity along electrical transmission lines and substation sites.

Electrochemical methods of corrosion rate measurement were used in laboratory tests. Metallic specimens were exposed to actual soil specimens. Results are used together with soil properties data to furnish indication on corrosion behavior to be expected for the metals, and design possible protection methods. The ultimate goal of this program is to define in situ procedures to rapidly estimate corrosion rates and soil aggressivity.

An attempt has been also made to study the influence of counter electrode position on electrochemical measurements.