API 571 Certification (Corrosion & Materials) Practice Test

The use of 316L stainless steel in environments containing sulfuric acid is attributed to its superior corrosion resistance compared to other materials. 316L is an austenitic stainless steel that contains molybdenum, which enhances its ability to withstand corrosion, particularly pitting and crevice corrosion that can occur in aggressive acidic environments like sulfuric acid.

This alloy displays a good balance of strength and ductility, making it suitable for various applications in chemical processing environments. The low carbon content in 316L minimizes the risk of sensitization, further improving its corrosion resistance in such applications.

While other materials may have some level of resistance to sulfuric acid, they may not perform as well as 316L stainless steel under these specific conditions, particularly under varying concentrations and temperatures. Therefore, 316L stainless steel is often the preferred choice for applications involving sulfuric acid due to its durability and resistance to aggressive media.