Electrochemical Polarization as a Sustainable Method for the Formation of Bronze Patina Layers on a Quaternary Copper Alloy: Insight into Patina Morphology and Corrosion Behaviour

Abstract

The bronze patina is aesthetically pleasing and enhances the corrosion resistance of the metallic object. This corrosion product layer can develop naturally, through aging or artificially. However, artificial methods require substances that are hazardous to human health and the environment. In this study, a sustainable approach to patina development, based on the anodic polarization of a 85.5Cu-4.2Pb-4.5Sn-5.7Zn copper alloy immersed in 0.1 M NaCl + 0.01 M NaHCO3 were characterized using polarization curves, chronoamperometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electrochemical noise measurements, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that the anodic potential modifies the current density as well as the diffusion coefficient of oxygen associated with a thicker corrosion product layer. Electrochemical Impedance spectroscopy and electrochemical noise show that the porous behaviour and corrosion resistance increases as the potential becomes more anodic due to the formation of a protective layer. This behaviour corresponded with the results acquired by chronoamperometry. The surface characterization shows that the potential applied changes the surface morphology and composition of the corrosion products, being identified the crystalline phases of nantokite and atacamite although Cu, Cl, O, Zn, and Pb elements were also detected.