In situ observation of pitting of stainless steel by XAFS

An in situ observation technique by XAFS (X-ray Absorption Fine Structures) has been developed for observation of metal corrosion. XAFS spectra were obtained with a special electrochemical cell to elucidate pitting: change of concentrations and structures of ions near the interface of solution and metal. It has been successfully shown that the concentrations of Cr and Br are linearly dependent on the distance from the interface. Also, salt formation at the interface and the hydrolysis reaction far from the interface are indicated.