Corrosion behavior and characteristics of the product film of API X100 steel in acidic simulated soil solution

The short-term corrosion behavior of API X100 steel in an acidic simulated soil was investigated by electrochemical measurements and soaking experiments, followed by corrosion morphology observations and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. The results show that X100 steel exhibits an obvious pitting susceptibility in an acidic soil environment. Pits nucleate after approximately 10 h of immersion. Along with the nucleation and growth of the pits, the charge-transfer resistance and open-circuit potential first increase sharply, then decrease slowly, and eventually reach a steady state. The maxima of the charge-transfer resistance and open-circuit potential are attained at approximately 10 h. The evolution of the electrochemical process is confirmed by the analysis of the product film. The product film exhibits a porous and loose structure and could not protect the substrate well. The product film is primarily composed of ferrous carbonate and ferrous hydroxide (Fe(OH)2). The concentration of Fe(OH)2 in the product film increases from the inside to the outside layer.