Electrochemical Polarization Part 1: Fundamentals and Corrosion

Abstract

Polarization measurement is one of the major electrochemical methods used by electrochemists. The changes in current/potential with time at constant potential/current are investigated. The outcomes of these observations can be used to plot a current–potential curve. Therefore, it is important to understand the relationship between the three parameters: electrode potential, current, and time. In this paper, we described the fundamentals of the polarization, especially the current–potential curve (Butler–Volmer equation) and mass-transfer. In addition, the concept of polarization in corrosion reactions is explored.

Keywords

• polarization
• current density
• butler–volmer equation
• tafel plot