The behaviour of aluminium wire towards aqueous solutions of the surface-active agents sodium dodecyl-benzenesulphonate and sodium dodecyl sulphate in the presence and absence of cupric ions has been studied.
In exposures up to 13 days, aluminium was pitted by solutions of both agents only if cupric ions were present. It is suggested that the surface-active agent weakens the oxide film, facilitating the penetration of the film and deposition of copper, and then local cell action causes the dissolution of aluminium.
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References
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