Microstructure and anodic polarization behavior of experimental Ag–18Cu–15Pd–12Au alloy in aqueous sulfide solution

Abstract

The anodic corrosion behavior of an experimental Ag–15Pd–18Cu–12Au alloy in 0.1% Na₂S solution in relation to its microstructure was investigated using potentiodynamic and potentiostatic polarization techniques with analyses of corrosion products by X-ray diffractometry, Auger electron spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The role of Pd in improvement of the corrosion resistance was also investigated. In the potential/current density curve, three distinct current peaks, at −520 mV (peak I), −425 mV (peak II) and −175 mV (peak III), were observed. The Ag-rich α₂ matrix with coarse Cu and Pd-rich lamellae was the most corrosion-susceptible region, and this region was preferentially corroded at peak I with the formation of granular deposits of Ag₂S. A small amount of Ag–Cu mixed sulfide deposited on the Cu and Pd-rich coarse particles and dissolution of Ag as AgO⁻ might have occurred in parallel with Ag₂S formation at peak II. Enrichment of Pd on the alloy surface occurred at peak III due to preferential dissolution of Ag and Cu. A high level of corrosion resistance was attained with the formation of a thin Pd-rich sulfide film, which enhanced the passivity of the alloy in an alkaline sulfide solution. It was found that passivity is an important phenomenon not only for base metal alloys but also for noble metal alloys to maintain high levels of resistance to corrosion and tarnishing in sulfide environments.