Corrosion occurs when AC is conducted to a metal through an electrolyte. Alternating current produces
cyclic changes in the polarity of the electrode. Each half-cell reaction has different accumulative effects.
For instance, the anodic half cycle can lead to corrosion or pitting whereas the cathodic half cycle can
lead to hydrogen charging and possibly cracking.
AC produces a shift in the electrode potential, however the direction and magnitude of the shift depend
on the intensity of the AC. Pitting is usually observed after sufficient time.
Studies have been conducted to explain the phenomena and identify the possible implications for the
design of corrosion protection systems such as cathodic protection.
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic polarization have been used to determine
the effect of AC and induced magnetic fields. Characterization by scanning electron microscopy of the
surface has also been performed.
Key words: AC corrosion, waveform, pitting, hydrogen charging, potential shift