In cathodic protection, where does corrosion primarily occur?

In cathodic protection, corrosion primarily occurs at the anode. This is because cathodic protection works by providing a sacrificial anode or employing impressed current to reduce the electrochemical potential of the metal structure that needs protection. The protected metal structure is made to act as a cathode in the electrochemical cell, while the anode is where oxidation occurs, leading to corrosion.

During the process, the electrons flow from the anode to the cathode, which inhibits corrosion on the cathode (the protected metal) and promotes it at the anode. Therefore, understanding that the anode is the site of corrosion is essential for implementing effective cathodic protection strategies, as the goal is to minimize corrosion at the sites that are critical to maintaining the integrity of metal structures.