The 2XXX Al alloys are characterized by their superior mechanical properties resulting from alloying elements and precipitation hardening treatments. The AA2524-T3 alloy was developed to replace the AA2024-T3 alloy in the aerospace industry. However, both alloys present many intermetallic particles (IMCs) in their microstructure, and this is the main reason for their high susceptibility to localized corrosion (such as pitting and stress corrosion cracking). Despite the similarities between these alloys (e.g., chemical composition and type of intermetallics) the literature comparing their properties is scarce and focuses mainly on their mechanical properties, not their corrosion resistances. In this investigation, the corrosion resistance of the AA2524-T3 alloy was compared to the AA2024-T3 alloy. The microstructure of both alloys was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy before and after immersion in the test electrolyte, and the number and area fraction of intermetallics of each alloy was determined. The corrosion resistance of both alloys was monitored as a function of exposure time by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and the results were fitted using electrical equivalent circuits. The AA2524-T3 alloy presented not only higher impedance values but also less corroded areas than the AA2024-T3 alloy.

The resistance to localised corrosion of the full austenitic 15%Cr-15%Ni-1.2%Mo titanium stabilized stainless steel (DIN W. Nr. 1.4970) was investigated by electrochemical methods including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization and potentiostatic polarization measurements in a phosphate-buffered solution (PBS). The low carbon and non-stabilized austenitic stainless steel, AISI 316L (ASTM F-138), widely used for surgical implants, was also tested for comparison. The tests were conducted at room temperature after a stable potential had been reached. After the electrochemical measurements, the surfaces of the specimens were observed using SEM to evaluate the presence of pits. Potentiodynamic polarization results showed that both steels are prone to localized corrosion. Larger pits were found on the surface of AISI 316L specimens after the electrochemical tests. EIS response has indicated the duplex structure of the passive oxides. The results showed that the electrochemical behaviour of the DIN W. Nr. 1.4970 is better than of AISI 316L steel. Therefore, their application as an implant material may be considered.