Electrochemical testing of thermal spray coatings using gel electrolytes

The use of electrochemical methods allows fast and inexpensive corrosion measurements of bulk materials with high significance. In the case of thermal spray coatings, electrolyte penetration into open pores up to the substrate material can cause undesired mixed potentials. Furthermore, the implementation of complex geometries or rough surfaces remains a problem. Preconditioning of the surface or the use of the electrochemical cell is required to eliminate leakage. Therefore, reliably measuring corrosion is still a challenging task. This undermines fast monitoring of corrosion performance as a part of the production process. Gelling agents are investigated to increase the viscosity of many electrolytes. A procedure has been developed to determine the concentration level and the mixing conditions. Passivation and pitting-corrosion testing are performed on thermal spray AISI 316L coatings. The electrochemical potential curves as well as the corroded surface layers were studied in comparison to a liquid electrolyte. The suitability of the test on rough surfaces in the sprayed condition was investigated. The results prove the novel approach as an alternative to established electrochemical test methods with extended application range.