anodic protection

Definition

Reduction in corrosion, achieved by making a metal structure anode (positive electrode) with a low voltage direct current so that it attains and retains an electrochemically passive state in a particular environment. Developed in 1950s, anodic protection is more suitable than cathodic protection for certain metals such as stainless steels specially in extremely corrosive environments, as in the handling and storage of concentrated sulfuric (sulphuric) acid. This method, however, requires careful monitoring and control otherwise it may instead hasten the corrosion process.