Work

Corrosion Behaviour of S32101 (1.4162—X2CrMnNiN21-5-1) Stainless Steel in Pulping Liquors

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The corrosion behaviour of lean duplex S32101 (1.4162-X2CrMnNiN21-5-1) stainless steel was assessed in various corrosive environments relevant to the pulp and paper industry. Electrochemical techniques, including open-circuit potential measurements and cyclic polarisation, were used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of S32101 stainless steel in various acidic, saline, and industrial liquors such as black, green, and white liquors, as well as dissolved chlorine dioxide bleaching solutions. To evaluate the extent of damage and corrosion mechanisms, post-exposure surface analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that S32101 experienced pitting corrosion in chloride-containing solutions, particularly in salt and acidified-salt environments. Corrosion rates increased with rising temperatures across all solutions. The highest corrosion rate of 3.17 mm/yr was observed in the highly alkaline white liquor at 50 °C, whilst chlorine dioxide induced the least aggressive effects at all temperatures. The suitability of S32101 stainless steel in handling pulp and paper liquors is shown in its corrosion resistance against the bleaching medium and low-temperature saline solutions, but it is not recommended for prolonged exposure to high alkaline liquors or chloride-rich solutions.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma18091921

Authors: Banele Siyabonga Kheswa, David Whitefield, Herman Potgieter, Michael Bodunrin

Institution: University of the Witwatersrand

Language: English

Topic: Hydrogen embrittlement and corrosion behaviors in metals

Subfield: Metals and Alloys

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funder: Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa