Effects of prior corrosion with and without stress on the mechanical properties of 7475-T761 aluminum alloy

The effect of prior corrosion on the mechanical properties of 7475-T761 aluminum alloy was investigated by immersion test, stress corrosion test, cathode charge method and electrochemical polarization test. Results show that prior corrosion in the solution with 3 wt% NaCl and 0.5 wt% H₂O₂ leads to mechanical properties deterioration of 7475-T761 aluminum alloy. Moreover, the elongation decreases significantly. This is mainly attributed to electrochemical corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement, in which corrosion plays a major role. Tensile stress promotes the degradation of the mechanical properties by accelerating the pitting corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement.