Effect of Nitriding on the Anodic Behavior of Iron and Its Significance in Pitting Corrosion of Iron-Based Alloys

Abstract The anodic behavior of both pure iron and nitrided iron has been studied in chloride-containing aqueous solutions at neutral and acidic pH values. The structure of the nitride has been characterized by X-ray diffraction. Surface nitrides may modify the anodic kinetics of stainless steel at the stage of pitting initiation by inhibition of the anodic dissolution of iron. Micro-electrode measurements performed in simulated pits have provided supporting evidence.