What is typically used to measure the corrosion potential of underwater metals?

The silver-silver chloride reference electrode is commonly used to measure the corrosion potential of underwater metals due to its favorable electrochemical characteristics and stability in aqueous environments. This type of electrode produces a stable reference potential in marine conditions, which is crucial for accurately assessing corrosion risk and behavior in metals immersed in water. While other electrodes can be used in various environments, the silver-silver chloride electrode provides a reliable and consistent baseline for potential measurements, making it the preferred choice in marine corrosion assessments.

In comparison, other types of electrodes, such as gold reference electrodes or platinum reference electrodes, may not provide the same level of accuracy or stability in marine settings. These electrodes can be more susceptible to variations in the environment that can affect their performance as reference points for corrosion potential measurements. The silver-silver chloride electrode's effectiveness in underwater applications and its compatibility with saline environments make it the typical selection for this purpose.