What increases the rate of chloride stress corrosion cracking?

Higher temperature or lower pH significantly increases the rate of chloride stress corrosion cracking due to the acceleration of the electrochemical reactions that lead to corrosion. High temperatures can increase the mobility of chloride ions and promote their aggressive interaction with the metal surface. This mobilization enhances the formation of localized corrosion cells, which are critical in stress corrosion cracking.

Additionally, low pH environments, which are more acidic, create a condition that further promotes metal dissolution and ionization, making it easier for chlorides to attack the metal. Under these conditions, the protective oxide layer on a metal surface can become compromised, leading to increased susceptibility to cracking. In summary, both higher temperatures and lower pH levels create a favorable environment for the initiation and propagation of stress corrosion cracking facilitated by chloride ions.