On the stray current corrosion of copper alloys in soil environments

This thesis examines the influence of soil characteristics and stray current fields on copper (Cu) alloy corrosion in urban Victoria, particularly in residential and water infrastructure near high-voltage sources. It investigates how soil texture, salinity, and moisture content affect corrosion, both with and without stray currents. Additionally, it explores the impact of voltage drops, stray current potential fluctuations, and duty cycles on corrosion. Findings show that finer soil textures, higher salinity, and increased proximity to stray current sources accelerate Cu corrosion, providing insights for managing corrosion in urban infrastructure systems.