Aluminum anodes are widely utilized for galvanic cathodic protection of marine structures. Various mechanisms have been proposed for the activation and dissolution of these anodes; however, the processes and
factors which affect performance, including composition, operating potential, and current density, are not yet fully understood. The present paper consolidates the literature regarding corrosion of AI and, in particular, corrosion of A1 galvanic anodes. In addition, the various factors that affect anode operating performance are discussed,
including chemical composition, pitting and activation theory, current density, and exposure time. Particular emphasis is placed upon electrolyte chemistry at the anode-corrosion product interface, as modified by the confinement that occurs here as corrosion products develop; and results from experiments where current capacity was measured as a function of current density in an acidified solution that was intended to simulate the occluded electrolyte of actual anodes are presented. Recommendations are made for development of a short-term anode testing procedure that can provide information regarding long-term performance.