Dissimilar metal weld (DMW) joint between alloyed steel (AS) and stainless steel (SS) failed at one of intermediate temperature superheater (ITSH) tube in steam/power generation plant boiler. The premature failure was detected after a relatively short time of operation (8 years) where the crack propagated circumferentially from AS side through the ITSH tube. Apart from physical examination, microstructural studies based on optical microscopy, SEM and EDX analysis were performed. The results of the investigation point out the limitation of Carbides precipitation at the alloyed steel/welding interface. This is synonym of creep stage I involvement in the failure of ITSH. Improper post-welding operation and bending moment are considered as root causes of the premature failure

During the 2000s, the concept of cathodic protection (CP) shielding was first raised in open literature and remains debated between coatings professionals. The mechanism of CP shielding, and its understanding continue to be studied for different coatings with different approaches and using various techniques. From the CP shielding factors to the assessment methods, the published literature merits a deep analysis to capture the established knowledge and identify the research gaps to further tackle the issue for reliable coated buried structures. A holistic approach to this topic seems necessary where coatings ageing, cathodic protection, electrochemistry, and transport processes should be considered. In the first part of the present review, the recent works related to the understanding of CP shielding, coatings properties were considered before discussing the mechanisms involved underneath coatings. Transport phenomena and their relationship with cathodic protection performance in the presence of chemical and microbiological processes are discussed in the second part. Finally, CP shielding assessment methods and modeling works are presented and discussed from different perspectives.