Several factors influence the occurrence and severity of selective leaching in mechanical applications. Some of which include:

• Material Properties: The composition, microstructure, and metallurgical history of the materials involved play a significant role in determining their susceptibility to dealloying.
• Environment: The chemical composition, temperature, and pH of the operating environment can affect the aggressiveness of the selective leaching process, influencing the extent of selective leaching.
• Electrochemical Factors: The electrochemical properties of the alloy components, such as their electrochemical potential difference and standard reduction potentials, can influence the rate of leaching by determining the susceptibility of the components to dissolution.
• Galvanic Coupling: The presence of galvanic coupling between the alloy components or with other metals in the system can accelerate the selective leaching process by increasing the electrochemical potential difference.
• Passive Film Formation: The presence and stability of passive films on the alloy surface can affect the dealloying process by providing a barrier to selective leaching.
• Exposure Time: Naturally, the duration of exposure to the corrosive operating environment can impact the extent of dealloying, as longer exposure times typically result in increased material loss.

As with any metal failure mode, there are several mitigation strategies that can minimize the occurrence and severity of dealloying in mechanical applications, including:

• Material Selection: Choose materials with suitable properties, such as low susceptibility to selective leaching and stable alloy compositions, to reduce the propensity for dealloying.
• Passive Coatings: Apply protective coatings or surface treatments, such as electroplated chromium or conversion coatings, to improve the corrosion resistance and provide a barrier to selective leaching.
• Environment Control: If possible, control the operating environment by reducing exposure to aggressive chemicals, minimizing temperature fluctuations, and controlling pH levels to reduce the rate of dealloying.
• Cathodic Protection: Implement cathodic protection techniques, such as sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems, to reduce the electrochemical corrosion rate and minimize the detrimental impact of dealloying.