Methods for preparation of corroded steel specimens for mechanical testing

Abstract

Steel parts and structures are often used in an aggressive environment, which causes corrosion. Corrosion leads to deterioration of the mechanical properties of steel in two ways. First, it reduces the area of the carrying cross sections. Second, it increases surface defects, which are stress concentrators. Therefore, it is necessary to study the impact of corrosion on the mechanical properties of steel. The paper reviews the methods for causing corrosion of steel specimens for mechanical testing. The impact that the corrosion method and the degree of corrosion have on the mechanical properties of steel is also discussed.