What phenomenon might occur due to galvanic corrosion during ultrasonic processing?

• A. Brown and black stains
• B. Bubbling or fizzing of the instruments
• C. Material degradation
• D. Bluish-black stains

Answer: (D)

Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are electrically connected in the presence of an electrolyte, leading to the deterioration of one of the metals. During ultrasonic processing, fluctuations in the ultrasonic waves can create conditions that promote this type of corrosion.

The formation of bluish-black stains is indicative of the corrosion processes occurring on the surfaces of surgical instruments, especially those made of stainless steel or other alloys. These stains are primarily due to the corrosion of iron or other metallic components when they are subjected to an electrolytic environment created by the ultrasonic cleaning solution.

The phenomenon of galvanic corrosion typically does not directly lead to brown and black stains, bubbling or fizzing of the instruments, or simply material degradation without a specific characteristic stain. Each of these other options might suggest different types of reactions or issues not specifically tied to the galvanic process, highlighting that the bluish-black stains are a more telling sign of galvanic corrosion effects during ultrasonic processing.