Material Removal Characteristics of Martensitic Stainless Steel in Acetic Acid Aqueous Solutions and in Acetic Acid Ethanolic Solutions

Abstract

To evaluate the effect of acetic acid on material removal from stainless steel, sliding tests were performed. Martensitic stainless steel pins were unidirectionally slid against smooth and rough alumina (Al₂O₃) disks in water, in ethanol, in acetic acid aqueous solutions and in acetic acid ethanolic solutions. Morphological and chemical analyses of the worn pin and disk surfaces were then performed. The addition of acetic acid to water and ethanol resulted in reduction of adhesion of stainless steel to Al₂O₃, inhibition of the formation of metal oxides, and increased wear of the stainless steel. The surface roughness of the mating Al₂O₃ disk affected the wear mechanism of the stainless steel pin. The solvents and total concentration of acetic acid in the solution affected electrochemical actions such as anodic dissolution and galvanic corrosion.

Fig. 3 Wear volume of 440C stainless steel pins slid against (a) smooth Al₂O₃ disks and (b) rough Al₂O₃ disks.