Anodic dissolution of Al sacrificial anodes in NaCl solution containing Ce

The corrosion behaviour of Al–Zn–In sacrificial anodes has been investigated in a sodium chloride solution containing CeCl3. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry have been employed to gain knowledge of the micro-morphology and corrosion process of the Al alloy. Cerium, both as the alloy element and as the additive in the NaCl solution, improves the electrochemical properties of the Al–Zn–In alloy. The activation of Ce in the Al–Zn–In alloy in the NaCl solution has been studied.

Research highlights
► Ce improves the current efficiency of Al sacrificial anodes.
► Ce enhances a uniform attack on the surface of the Al alloy.
► The dissolution of the Al anode in chloride media initiates at precipitations where Ce is enriched.
► Ce enhances the activation on the surface of Al sacrificial anodes.