Insight into the role of Si on corrosion resistance of weathering steel in a simulated industrial atmosphere

This study investigates the role of Si on the corrosion resistance of weathering steel (WS) in a simulated industrial environment. With increasing Si content (0.15–0.50%), the corrosion resistance of WS is enhanced. On the one hand, the rust layer becomes compact and uniform because higher Si content promotes the formation of fine α-FeOOH. On the other hand, Si reacts with Fe3O4 to form a three-dimensional SiO2 network structure located around the cracks and holes of the rust layer. This structure has a protective effect, enhancing the corrosion resistance of WS and equipping the rust layer with self-healing functionality.