The effects of UV and visible light on the corrosion of bronze covered with an oxide film in aqueous solution

Abstract The effects of UV and visible light on the corrosion of bronze covered with an oxide film were investigated by means of electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques. The results showed that UV and visible light illuminations strongly affected the corrosion process of bronze covered with an oxide film. In particular, visible light accelerated the Cu dissolution rate and promoted the growth of an electrochemical reactive corrosion layer on the bronze surface that offers no protection to the bronze substrate. Whereas UV light slowed down the corrosion of bronze substrate and enhanced the Sn enrichment in the oxide film which stabilized the oxide film.