Corrosion of carbon steel in the [P14666][Br] ionic liquid: The effects of γ-radiation and cover gas

The corrosion of carbon steel in the ionic liquid (IL) [P14666] [Br] was studied with the IL in contact with an inert (Ar) or oxidizing (air) cover gas in the presence and absence of γ-radiation. Significant corrosion was observed for the tests performed in the absence of γ-radiation while a protective oxide layer is formed in the presence of γ-radiation. The corrosion is attributed to the presence of impurity H2O and O2 dissolved in the IL, and a corrosion mechanism is proposed.