Role of microstructure on corrosion initiation of an experimental tool alloy: A Quantitative Nanomechanical Property Mapping study

The adhesion properties of a FeCrVN experimental tool alloy immersed in pure water and sodium chloride solution have been studied by Quantitative Nanomechanical Property Mapping to understand the influence of microstructure on corrosion initiation of this alloy. The approach used here allows early observation and identification of pre-pitting events that may lead to passivity breakdown of the alloy. Adhesion provides a good distinction between the different regions and we ascribe this to their vanadium and nitrogen contents. Finally, the prepitting is characterized by generation of small particles in specific regions of the surface with low chromium content.