Corrosion behavior and characteristics of the product film of API X100 steel in acidic simulated soil solution

The short-term corrosion behavior of API X100 steel in an acidic simulated soil was investigated by electrochemical measurements and soaking experiments, followed by corrosion morphology observations and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. The results show that X100 steel exhibits an obvious pitting susceptibility in an acidic soil environment. Pits nucleate after approximately 10 h of immersion. Along with the nucleation and growth of the pits, the charge-transfer resistance and open-circuit potential first increase sharply, then decrease slowly, and eventually reach a steady state. The maxima of the charge-transfer resistance and open-circuit potential are attained at approximately 10 h. The evolution of the electrochemical process is confirmed by the analysis of the product film. The product film exhibits a porous and loose structure and could not protect the substrate well. The product film is primarily composed of ferrous carbonate and ferrous hydroxide (Fe(OH)₂). The concentration of Fe(OH)₂ in the product film increases from the inside to the outside layer.