Corrosion Behavior of ASTM A1010 Stainless Steel for Applications in Bridge Components

The purpose of this research was the investigation of the corrosion behavior of a low chromium-content stainless steel, ASTM A1010, for use in steel bridge members. This stainless steel has been marketed as a potential replacement for conventional structural steels for bridges located in highly-corrosive environments, with the potential to provide life-cycle cost savings. Further investigation of the corrosion behavior of A1010 in corrosive environments was required for three bridge-specific applications: the galvanic corrosion of A1010 connected to plates and fasteners composed of dissimilar metals; the crevice corrosion of A1010 plates connected with other A1010 plates; and the effect of varying surface preparation techniques on the corrosion behavior of A1010. These behaviors were studied through the implementation of an accelerated cyclic corrosion test, the modified SAE J2334 Surface Vehicle Standard specification. Results from the accelerated corrosion test indicated the following: galvanic corrosion rates of A1010 with dissimilar metal plates may result in accelerated corrosion rates of the dissimilar metal plates beyond desirable levels; connections to many non-stainless fastener types show cause for concerns with galvanic corrosion, while B8 Class 2 austenitic stainless steel bolt assemblies exhibited superior performance; the relative corrosion-resistance of A1010 is decreased in detailing susceptible to crevice corrosion; and finally, numerous abrasive blasting procedures appear to be suitable for use with A1010.