Function of Cu-Sb or Al microalloying on the corrosion resistance of 9Cr steel exposed to simulated concrete pore solution

The role of Cu-Sb or Al on the passivation and Cl-induced depassivation of 9Cr steel in simulated concrete pore solution was systematically obtained via electrochemical tests and microstructure characterization. Both microalloying enhanced electrochemical passivation even if the solution pH dropped. Cu and Al participated in the formation of natural passive film, and the properties of passive film were optimized in terms of resistance, composition, and inner film thickness. However, the chloride threshold level (CTL) was not increased with Cu-Sb microalloying and even decreased with Al microalloying, which is understood from the stability of Al-containing products and the hazards of inclusions.