Cyclic voltammetry has been used to investigate the behaviour of copper surfaces in sodium salicylate aqueous solutions. The observed copper anodic passivation dependence on the presence of salicylate ion in solution is explained. The analysis of the experimental data supports the formation of a complex passivating film formed by a Cu2O inner layer and a mixed cupric oxide/cupric salicylate outer layer; this film provides a partial passivation of the copper surface and can be completely removed upon excursion to negative potentials values; the composition of the passivating layer depends on the electrolyte nature, i.e. sodium salicylate ion and solution pH, and on the potential programme the copper electrode is subjected to. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.