engleski

Electrochemical characterization and identification of corrosion layer products on bronze artifacts using a carbon paste electrode

The deterioration of outdoor bronze sculptures is caused by electrochemical corrosion. Depending on the corrosive environment, time of exposure, alloy composition and casting technology, various corrosion layers (patinas) form on bronze sculptures. The composition, structure and mechanisms of the formation of these corrosion layers can provide valuable information about the corrosion processes taking place on bronze surfaces and help us determine the level of corrosion attack and the stability and protectiveness of the corrosion layers, and establish conservation-restoration measures that are needed to protect bronze from further deterioration (1, 2). We have previously investigated corrosion products on bronze in various simulated types of corrosive environments by means of a series of complementary analytical and electro-analytical techniques. In the present study cyclic voltammetry of micro- / nanoparticles attached to a carbon paste electrode (3-5) has been applied. In spite of the difficulties in the interpretation of voltammetric data due to the coexistence of various electro-active corrosion products with similar electrochemical responses, the inherent advantages of the applied method – experimental simplicity and sampling in micro to nanoscale – make this method attractive for wide application in conservation/restoration applications.

electro analysis ; corrosion

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