Corrosion of iron from heritage buildings: proposal for degradation indexes based on rust layer composition and electrochemical reactivity

Researchers propose two degradation indices to assess rust reactivity on heritage ferrous artefacts, particularly those in indoor environments like Amiens Cathedral. These indices are based on the composition and electrochemical reactivity of corrosion layers, primarily goethite with ferrihydrite marblings, alongside trace phases such as lepidocrocite and akaganeite. Electrochemical measurements identified reduction-reactive phases, enabling a correlation between rust composition and reactivity. This approach offers a preliminary framework for diagnosing corrosion in historic structures, linking rust layer characteristics to degradation risk.

Monnier, J., Dillmann, P., Legrand, L., & Guillot, I. (2010). Corrosion of iron from heritage buildings: proposal for degradation indexes based on rust layer composition and electrochemical reactivity. Corrosion Engineering, Science and Technology, 45(5), 375–380. https://doi.org/10.1179/147842210x12779093813740