On the comparison of the tribocorrosion behavior of passive and non-passivating materials and assessment of the influence of agitation

Abstract In this study, the tribocorrosion behavior of an AISI 316 stainless steel (passive) and a Low-Alloyed steel (non-passivating or active) was compared, evaluating also the influence of electrolyte agitation. Unidirectional ball-on-disc tests were performed in synthetic seawater with the Zero Resistant Ammeter technique. The differences on the currents registered for both materials evinced the high rate dissolution of the active steel even in the absence of sliding, while the AISI showed negligible electrochemical activity. The results showed little influence on the agitation for the passive material, but a considerable effect on the wear-accelerated corrosion in the unworn surface of the non-passivating steel.