Role of segregation behavior of Cu and Sb in the region of inclusions on initial corrosion

The distribution characteristics of corrosion-resistant elements in low-alloy steel affected the initial corrosion behavior of the matrix. In this article, the segregation behaviors of elements at grain boundaries and pearlite defects in low-alloy steel Q500 and the precipitation behavior of Cu in inclusions were studied. Cu, Ni and Sb had segregation behavior at the boundary of the inclusions, which was beneficial for reducing grain boundary segregation. Cu had the ability to capture Sb and Ni. Cu and Sb involvement in local corrosion process of inclusions were observised by multi-cycle 3.5% NaCl immersion test, during which Cu and Sb were oxidized to corresponding Cu 2 O and Sb 2 O 3 . Under the influences of the segregation of elements at the grain boundaries, the internal part of the crystal was preferentially corroded. Cr was enriched in the pearlite cementite, formed (Cr,Fe) 7 C 3 and contributed to the corrosion process, forming Cr 2 O 3 and CrO 3 .