A study of the effect of depth variations on the cathodic protection of buried pipe by photovoltaic technique

Thesis Overview

<p> </p><p><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong></p><p><strong>1.0 Cathodic protection</strong></p><p>Cathodic protection (CP) is one of the electrical methods of controlling corrosion of metals in any environment. Generally, cathodic protection is the corrosion control leading technique of a metallic structure by making the metal the cathode (i.e. electron sink) in an environment by means of an impressed voltage. Cathodic protection is also a method of preventing oxidation (rusting) of exposed metal structures by imposing between the structure and the ground a small electrical voltage that opposes the flow of electrons, and is greater than the voltage that is present during oxidation [1]. It is one of the most effective anticorrosion methods. CP is used to protect various types of steel structures in contact with different environments [2]. It is therefore relevant in the protection of the outer metal surfaces, for example, underground-buried pipelines, and ship hulls, as well as interior surfaces of heat exchangers, and chemical reactors [3].</p><p><strong>1.1 General Corrosion Principles</strong></p><p>Corrosion is the gradual degradation of a metal by the environment. The degradation can either be biochemical, chemical or electrochemical as shown below. Also, corrosion is the destruction of metals by means other than straight mechanical process [4]. Corrosion is a natural process that cannot be prevented, but may be controlled through correct intervention [5]. The corrosion process involves the removal of electrons (oxidation) from the metal [Equation (1.1)…</p> <br><p></p>