SEDL / STP / STP397-EB / STP46428S

The Mechanism of Salt Attack on Titanium Alloys

Petersen, V. C.
Research metallurgist, Crucible Steel Company of Am., Pittsburgh, Pa.

Bomberger, H. B.
Manager, product development, Reactive Metals, Inc., Niles, Ohio

Pages: 15    Published: Jan 1966

Download this paper for $25 PDF (712K)          View License Agreement
Abstract

Stress corrosion in titanium is caused by complex oxidation reactions. Reaction products were identified by X-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography. Chlorine gas was identified as an intermediate and regenerable reaction product that has a strong tendency to crack titanium. No reaction occurs if oxygen or oxide is absent. Extensive damage can occur even if only a small amount of salt is present. This sensitivity is attributed to recycling of chlorine. Of several surface treatments tested, metal coatings are most promising. Electrolytic nickel coatings, dipped aluminum coatings, and zinc coatings were most effective.