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U.S. Department of Energy
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Mechanism of Pitting Corrosion Prevention by Nitrite in Carbon Steel Exposed to Dilute Salt Solutions

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/831168· OSTI ID:831168
The overall goal of this project is to develop a fundamental understanding of the role of nitrite in preventing the breakdown of protective oxide(s) on carbon steel and the onset of pitting. Pitting corrosion of carbon steel exposed to dilute alkaline salt solutions can be induced by nitrate, sulfate, and chloride ions and is prevented by sufficient concentration of nitrite. A significant example of this material/electrolyte system is the storage and processing of DOE's high-level radioactive liquid waste in carbon steel tanks. Added nitrite in the waste has a considerable downstream impact on the immobilization of the waste in a stable glass form. Waste tank integrity and glass production efficiency may benefit from the fundamental understanding of nitrite's role in preventing pitting.
Research Organization:
Savannah River Technology Center, Aiken, SC; Swearingen Engineering Center, Columbia, South Carolina (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Environmental Management (EM) (US)
DOE Contract Number:
FG07-97ER45675
OSTI ID:
831168
Report Number(s):
EMSP-60401--1999
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English