What role does temperature play in corrosion rates?

Temperature significantly influences the rate of corrosion due to its impact on the electrochemical reactions that occur at the metal surface. As temperature increases, the rate of chemical reactions typically accelerates, which can lead to an increase in the rate of corrosion processes. This happens because higher temperatures enhance the mobility of ions in electrolytes and facilitate the diffusion of reactants to the metal surface. Additionally, temperature can increase the solubility of gases that participate in corrosive processes, such as oxygen in the case of uniform corrosion.

The relationship between temperature and corrosion rates is well-established in both aqueous systems and in environments where galvanic corrosion can occur. For example, in high-temperature environments like steam and hydrocarbon processes, metals are subjected to accelerated attack, leading to more rapid degradation. This phenomenon is particularly evident in instances where protective films might break down more quickly at elevated temperatures, further exposing the metal to aggressive environments.

In contrast, claims that higher temperatures reduce corrosion or that colder temperatures are more corrosive do not align with the general understanding of corrosion science. While very low temperatures can slow down reactions, they typically do not lead to a more corrosive environment compared to higher temperatures. This principle is crucial for engineers and materials scientists when designing and maintaining equipment that operates under