Corrosion of metals arising from exposure to humid air is a pervasive problem. Frequently, it is hypothesised that this phenomenon arises once there is sufficient surface bound water to facilitate corrosion chemistry, but supporting evidence remains scarce. In this presentation, we deliver fresh insight through the application of near ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and vibrational sum frequency spectroscopy. Data indicate that water sorption is more complex than expected, comprising absorption into a layer of adventitious carbon covering the metallic substrate, followed by nucleation as droplets. These results demonstrate that current models for atmospheric corrosion require considerable revision.
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