Contact corrosion (Electroplating)

Contact corrosion in electroplating occurs when two different metallic materials are in direct contact with each other and are simultaneously surrounded by electrical conductivity and a humid environment. This process is also known as galvanic corrosion and causes the less noble metal (anode) to corrode, while the more noble metal (cathode) remains protected from corrosion.

The cause of contact corrosion lies in the electrochemical differences between the metals, which lead to a kind of "battery effect". If moisture is present, ions can migrate between the metals, leading to an imbalance in the electrical potentials. This process accelerates the corrosion process of the less noble metal.

Contact corrosion can lead to serious structural damage, especially in applications where the stability and integrity of metal components are critical. Various measures can be taken to prevent contact corrosion, such as the use of insulating interlayers or the selection of metallic materials with similar electrochemical behavior. Careful material selection and design are crucial to minimize the risk of contact corrosion and extend the life of metallic components.