acting as a corrosion resistant element. Some researchers have pointed
out the positive impact of tin on corrosion resistant propertywhen tin is
added into steel [12–14]. Nguyen Dang Nam and A. Pardo [12,14] introduced
a conclusion that the corrosion rate decreased with the increasing
content of tin, and the addition of tin had a positive effect on
pitting corrosion resistance of steel as well. Particularly, A. Pardo and
M.C.Merino [13] reported that Cu could favor pit nucleation but inhibit
its growth, whereas Sn exerted an opposite effect, i.e. favoring pit
growth and inhibiting its nucleation. Wenjin Zhang [4] reported that
the corrosion resistance of Mg–Zr–Ca alloy was improved apparently
with the addition of Sr and Sn. However, these studies just referred
some phenomena. The impact of tin on corrosion resistant properties
in mechanism and essential aspects had not been discussed. Besides,
the previous investigations were mainly based on stainless steels or
steel under acid corrosive environment, and till now no research has
been made to investigate the effect of tin on corrosion resistant property
of low alloy steel in seawater environment.