The open circuit (OCP) potential is the potential of the working electrode (metal specimen) relative to

the reference electrode when no potential or current is being applied to the corrosion system. In
general, OCP of an electrode is a thermodynamic parameter which tells about the thermodynamic
tendency of that metallic materials to participate in the electrochemical corrosion reactions with the
surrounding medium.

It is the potential of the electrode at which the cathodic and anodic reaction rates are in equilibrium in
the absence of applied potential in a given corrosive environment. The metallic materials with nobler
OCP are more thermodynamically stable than materials with less noble OCP. Thus, the potential
below OCP is more thermodynamically stable (shows less tendency to participate in the corrosion
reactions) whereas the potential above OCP is considered thermodynamically unstable and
susceptible to corrosion.

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