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Examination of corrosion damage

Corrosion analysis from a single source

When analyzing corrosion, the main focus is always on material analysis. As well as examining corroded surfaces using SEM-EDX, XPS, and other surface analysis methods, we primarily use metallographic techniques.

With many years of experience, we specialize in analyzing types of corrosion. Our experts have well-grounded expertise in electrochemistry and the physical properties of materials, which is essential for identifying causes of corrosion.

Precisely determining the causes of corrosion damage is often crucial in preventing future corrosion as it enables appropriate measures to be taken.

Do you need help with damage analysis?

Corrosion – a common event in damage analysis

Corrosion is one of the most important failure mechanisms, especially with metallic materials. According to a study, economic damage caused by corrosion equates to 3–4% of the gross domestic product of developed countries. Many types of corrosion result from errors in planning or application.

However, experience shows that even with the most careful planning, it is rare to predict every eventuality.

Corrosion damage can be caused by unforeseeable influences:

  • Changes in water quality
  • Contact with certain cleaning agents and other chemicals
  • External electric potentials
  • Metal components installed at a later date

One of our core areas is the analysis of corrosion damage. 

Our examinations of materials and material pairings

  • Use of imaging processes such as SEM and light microscopy
  • Identification of materials using SEM-EDX, spark OES, and X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF)
  • Phase analysis using XRD
  • Cross-sectional preparation and microstructure etching to identify microstructural changes in the base material (e.g., chromium carbide) caused by incorrect heat treatment
  • Identification of the corrosion mechanism: intergranular or transgranular stress corrosion cracking, vibration cracking, pitting corrosion, and more

Our services for corrosion products and media

  • Identification and characterization using XRD, SEM-EDX, and FT-IR
  • Identification of corrosive ions using ion chromatography (IC)
  • Chemical elemental analysis using ICP-MS/OES
  • Examination of surface chemistry using XPS (determination of the oxidation states of the elements involved)

 

Our corrosion analysis experts are here to help.

Contact us

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SGS INSTITUT FRESENIUS GmbH

Königsbrücker Landstr. 161
01109 Dresden

t. +49 351 8841-200