galvanico

Galvanico, or galvanic in English, denotes phenomena and devices based on electrochemical reactions that produce electrical energy or respond to it. The term is used in various contexts, including galvanic cells, galvanic corrosion, and galvanic protection.

The concept derives from the 18th-century work of Luigi Galvani, whose experiments with frog nerves and muscles stimulated by electric current gave rise to the notion of galvanism. The related term voltaic, from Alessandro Volta, describes devices that generate electricity chemically. In modern usage, galvanic refers to any process or component that involves redox reactions producing or using electrical energy.

Galvanic cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy. A typical arrangement consists of two electrodes in an electrolyte, with electrical energy produced by the spontaneous redox reaction. Batteries, including primary (non-rechargeable) and secondary (rechargeable) cells, operate on this principle.

Galvanic corrosion arises when two dissimilar metals are in electrical contact within an electrolyte, causing one metal to corrode preferentially. This is a major concern in maritime, piping, and structural engineering. Mitigation strategies include insulating dissimilar metals, applying protective coatings, using compatible materials, or employing sacrificial anodes that corrode in place of the protected metal.

Related concepts include galvanism, electrochemistry, batteries, and corrosion science.