You would like to carry out a galvanic coupling testing
What is galvanic coupling?
Galvanic coupling refers to an electrochemical phenomenon that occurs when two different metals or alloys are in electrical contact in the same electrolyte.
This can lead to accelerated corrosion of one of the two materials, known as the galvanic anode.
In the laboratory, the galvanic coupling test is used to quantify this risk and anticipate corrosive behaviour under controlled and reproducible conditions.
Electrochemical characterization and galvanic coupling testing can be applied to a wide range of industrial sectors, from aeronautics and cosmetics to energy and medical devices.
Why carry out a galvanic coupling testing?
Identifying material incompatibilities in multi-metal assemblies
Validate the choice of materials before going into production
Study the behaviour of systems in aggressive environments (marine environments, acids, chlorides, etc.)
Optimising the life of a protective device or coating
Understanding corrosion phenomena observed in service
The FILAB laboratory can help you test the galvanic coupling of your materials
Why choose FILAB for galvanic coupling testing?
FILAB, a laboratory made up of experts in metallurgy and steelmaking analysis, provides its knowledge and expertise to carry out your galvanic coupling tests and the electrochemical characterisation of your metal parts.
To provide you with the best possible support, the FILAB laboratory has Research Tax Credit accreditation and is COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited.
TECHNIQUE ANALYTIQUE
A galvanic coupling testing consists of bringing two different materials, immersed in the same electrolyte, into electrical contact, in order to observe and measure the resulting galvanic corrosion phenomena.
The current measured reflects the intensity of the galvanic corrosion. The more anodic material corrodes to the benefit of the more noble (cathodic) material. This makes it possible to identify the material at risk, quantify the severity of the coupling and suggest solutions.
This technique is essential for assessing the stability of protective coatings and the durability of biomaterials such as medical implants, providing valuable information about long-term mechanisms.
Common applications for a galvanic coupling testing
our analysis services
Measurement of the free potential (OCV) to evaluate the spontaneous electrochemical behavior of a metal in a given medium (water)
Measurement of corrosion potential (polarization curves)
Characterization of protective properties: barrier properties, porosity, water permeability, delamination, filamentary corrosion... ,
Determination of the corrosion rate (LSV) in order to know the corrosion rate (mm/year) in various environments (salt water, pure water, inhibitor presence)
Galvanic coupling measurement
Development of specific electrochemical tests (cathodic delamination, ACET, corrosion at the edges ...)
FAQ
Free potential measurement is used in many sectors:
- Energy (batteries, fuel cells)
- Aerospace & automotive (corrosion of alloys)
- Medical devices (biocorrosion)
- Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals (packaging materials)
- Nuclear and defence (stability control of sensitive materials)
Unlike techniques such as linear polarisation or EIS (electrochemical impedance), OCV does not stress the system. It is a passive measurement, often used as a preliminary step or as a reference indicator.
Several parameters need to be controlled:
- Electrolyte composition
- Temperature
- Sample surface preparation
- Electrode type and position
In the FILAB laboratory, these parameters are rigorously controlled to guarantee reliable results.
Yes, our experts can help you beyond the measurement stage, with technical interpretation, personalised reports and practical recommendations tailored to your industrial challenges.
