GALVANIC CORROSION AND PROTECTION OF GECM/LY12CZ COUPLES UNDER DIFFERENT ATMOSPHERIC EXPOSURE CONDITIONS
GALVANIC CORROSION AND PROTECTION OF GECM／LY12CZ COUPLES UNDER DIFFERENT ATMOSPHERIC EXPOSURE CONDITIONS

Galvanic, compatibility between graphite epoxy composite materials (GECM) and LY12CZ aluminum alloy was evaluated in different atmospheric corrosion environments and by laboratory electrochemical measurements. Open circuit potential electrochemical measurements showed a relatively large potential difference about 1 volt between the GECM and LY12CZ aluminum alloy, and this difference provided the driving force for galvanic corrosion of the LY12CZ aluminum alloy as an anode. Having been exposed for 1, 3 or 5 years in Beijing, Tuandao and Wanning station, GECM/LY12CZ couples showed significant losses of strength and elongation. Protective coatings and non-conductive barriers breaking the galvanic corrosion circuit were evaluated under the same atmospheric corrosive conditions. Epoxy primer paint, glass cloth barriers and LY12CZ anodizing were effective in galvanic corrosion control for GECM/LY12CZ couples.