Anodic protection

Anodic protection is an electrochemical process used to protect metal structures from corrosion. It is an active method of protection that uses the principle of electrolysis and creates a protective potential on the surface of the metal.

In anodic protection, an additional voltage source is connected to the protected metal structure (anode), for example the negative pole of the voltage source. This process causes the metal structure to become the anode of the electrochemical cell. Conversely, a second metal, known as the cathode, is placed near the anode, which is chemically less resistant and acts as a sacrificial anode.

In anodic protection, an electrical circuit is created between the anode and the cathode. The electric current that flows through this circuit allows electrochemical reactions to take place. Thus, in the process of electrolysis, the metal from the surface of the anode dissolves and is transferred to the electrolyte. This reduces the risk of corrosion of the anode material.

In this process, the sacrificial anode (cathode) is gradually consumed, while the protected metal structure (anode) remains intact. This method is most commonly used to protect pipelines, ships, tanks and other metal structures that are exposed to corrosive environments such as seawater.

Anodic protection is an effective method of protecting metal structures from corrosion, but requires proper installation and maintenance. It is also important to ensure the correct voltage setting and the correct selection of sacrificial anodes in order to achieve effective protection of metal structures.
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