The sections in this article are
Introduction
Definition of Passivity
Survey of Systems
General Principles of Passivity
Thermodynamics and Bond Polarity
Experimental Techniques for Characterization of Passive Films
Thickness and Stoichiometry of Passive Films
Chemistry, Crystal Structure and Aging
Chemistry and Crystal Structure
Aging
Potential Distribution at the Interface
Electrochemical and Chemical Reactions in Passive Systems
Reactions
Current Densities
i
Ionic Properties, Migration and Ion‐Transfer Reactions
Electronic Behavior and
ETR
Band Structure of Oxide Films
Electron‐Transfer Reactions
ETR
at Oxide Films
Mixed Ionic/Electronic Conductivity
Equivalent Circuit Diagrams
Growth of Oxide Films and Ionic Migration
Survey on the Growth of Oxide Films
Insulating Passive Films on Metals: Growth, and Corrosion of Al as Example
Thermodynamic Aspects
A Survey on Oxide Formation from
CVs
The Film Formation Factor
k
Electrochemical Impedance Spectra
EIS
and Equivalent Circuit Diagram
Kinetics of Film Growth
Corrosion and Breakdown
Porous Aluminum Oxide
Other Types of Passive Aluminum Oxide Films, Anof, Modified Aluminum, Alloys
Other Systems
Other Metals Forming Insulating Oxide Films
Semiconducting and Metallic Oxide Films on Metals
Duplex Films
Passivation with Participation of the Electrolyte
Semiconductors
Passivation of Alloys
ITR
at the Homogeneous Oxide/Electrolyte Interface: Corrosion and Modification
Passive Corrosion in the Steady State
Corrosion during Oxide Growth
Oxide Reduction and Oxidation
Modification of Oxide Films by
ITR
of Other Ions
Corrosion at Inhomogeneous Films: Breakdown, Pitting and Localized Attack
Microscopic and Molecular Reasons for Local Corrosion
Dielectric Breakdown
Collision ionization model
Tunnel model for thin films
Pitting Corrosion
Cathodic Breakdown
Laser Induced Breakdown or Oxide Growth
Applications
Conclusions
Acknowledgments