| Abstract Scope |
Over the past three decades, Kelvin Probe (KP) techniques, such as Scanning Kelvin Probe (SKP) and Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (SKPFM), have evolved into increasingly widespread and powerful tools for the characterization of a broad range of materials degradation phenomena, such as localized corrosion, coating delamination, and hydrogen embrittlement. Traditionally, KP methods have been applied under static conditions in air. However, this review will demonstrate that extending their use to dynamic environments with well-defined gas change conditions — taking advantage of the electrochemical principles underlying these KP techniques — can yield profound insights into local reactivity, making KP methods exceptionally versatile and informative tools for materials characterization. This will be discussed in details, supported by relevant examples. |