A simple model is proposed to describe some general aspects concerning the
formation of films at metal\ionic solution interfaces. Working on a mesosco
pic scale, three main processes are retained: the metal corrosion, the redu
ction of one species present in the ionic solution and the diffusion of one
species from the corrosion front to the growth front where the reduction t
akes place. This model differs from those devoted to the growth on a surfac
e by the existence of two fronts and their coupling. Moreover, a coupling b
etween the diffusive species is taken into account. To emphasize the role o
f the diffusion, the predictions of the model are compared with those obtai
ned from a simple extension of the Eden model. Due to diffusion a dissymetr
y is created between the two fronts which obeys different scaling laws. The
internal structure of the film during its formation is investigated via th
e concentration of diffusive species. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All ri
ghts reserved.