Mechanism for Barnacle-Induced Crevice Corrosion in Stainless Steel

Abstract

The intrinsic susceptibility of stainless steels to corrosive attack by barnacles is a widely recognized phenomenon. Corrosion usually manifests itself in crevices, corresponding to the base of the barnacles’ shell. The purpose of this investigation was to elucidate a mechanism for this corrosion phenomenon. Based on the results of the laboratory experiments, a model accounting for the factors involved in the nucleation and propagation of corrosion is presented. The roles of oxygen, bacteria, and the structure of the barnacle’s calcareous base are highlighted.