The 'galvanic series' (or 'electropotential series') determines the
nobility of
metals and
semi-metals. When two metals are submerged in an
electrolyte, while electrically connected, the less noble (base) will experience
galvanic corrosion. The rate of corrosion is determined by the electrolyte and the difference in nobility. The difference can be measured as a difference in voltage potential. Galvanic reaction is the principle which
batteries are based on.
Galvanic series (nobler higher)
The following is the galvanic series for stagnant (that is, low
oxygen content)
seawater. The order may change in different environments.
★
Graphite
★
Palladium
★
Platinum
★
Gold
★
Silver
★
Titanium
★
Stainless steel (316
passive)
★ Stainless Steel (304 passive)
★
Silicon bronze
★ Stainless Steel (316 active)
★
Monel 400
★
Phosphor bronze
★
Admiralty brass
★
Cupronickel
★
Molybdenum
★
Red brass
★ Brass
plating
★
Yellow brass
★
Naval brass 464
★ Uranium 8% Mo
★
Niobium 1%
Zr
★
Tungsten
★ Stainless Steel (304 active)
★
Tantalum
★
Chromium plating
★
Nickel (passive)
★
Copper
★ Nickel (active)
★
Cast iron
★
Steel
★
Lead
★
Tin
★
Indium
★
Aluminum
★
Uranium (pure)
★
Cadmium
★
Beryllium
★
Zinc plating (see
galvanization)
★
Magnesium
See also
★
Standard electrode potential and
table
External links
★
Corrosion Doctors