What is the effect of raising water temperature on galvanic corrosion rates?

Raising the temperature of water can influence the rates of galvanic corrosion in various ways, and it is generally understood that an increase in temperature can lead to an increase in corrosion rates. As the temperature rises, the kinetic energy of the particles in the water also increases, which can enhance the electrochemical reactions that lead to corrosion. Additionally, higher temperatures often reduce the solubility of gases in water, such as oxygen, which can affect the concentration of oxidizing agents present and further influence corrosion processes.

At elevated temperatures, the conductivity of water can improve, allowing currents to flow more easily between the anode and cathode in a galvanic cell, potentially accelerating the corrosion rate. Certain factors such as flow rates, the presence of temperature-dependent microbials, or changes in the chemical composition of the water can also exacerbate these rates.

This means that while not every scenario will result in increased rates of galvanic corrosion, it is a common occurrence that higher temperatures can contribute to more aggressive corrosive behavior in many materials exposed to water. Therefore, the assertion that raising water temperature may increase the rates of galvanic corrosion is consistent with established understandings in the field of corrosion science.