An overview of electrochemical, non-electrochemical and analytical approaches for studying corrosion in magnesium and its alloys

Corrosion is a pervasive phenomenon affecting materials across a multitude of scales, from the atomic to the macroscopic. This review paper presents a comprehensive examination of the methodologies employed in the analysis of magnesium corrosion, including electrochemical, non-electrochemical and analytical approaches, emphasizing the need for a diverse array of analytical tools to understand the complex interplay between corrosion, microstructure, and the dissolution mechanisms of magnesium alloys. The research showcases the utility of specific tools like SEM/EDS and SKPFM for targeted site analysis, while XPS and FTIR provide a broader perspective on specimen surfaces. The paper also discusses the value of in-situ analysis techniques, which allow for the real-time observation of corrosion processes, offering a dynamic view of the emergence and evolution of corrosion products. These in-situ methods stand in contrast to ex-situ analyses, which only permit post-experimental evaluation. By highlighting the capabilities of various analytical tools, from those that reveal surface layer details to those that probe deeper structures, and from those that detect primary elements to those that trace minute quantities of impurities, this study underscores the intricate nature of corrosion and the critical role of advanced analytical techniques in fostering a deeper understanding of material degradation. The findings advocate for the increased application of in-situ analysis in magnesium corrosion research, as it provides a more immediate and accurate depiction of corrosion dynamics, potentially leading to more effective corrosion prevention and control strategies.