What is corrosion? What are the prevention techniques?
Corrosion is the process of deterioration and wear of metals or other materials over time as a result of atmospheric interaction, electrochemical reactions or chemical wear. It usually occurs when metals come into contact with oxygen, water, salt or other chemical substances. Corrosion can negatively affect the physical properties, durability and performance of the material.
Among the main causes of corrosion can be found the following Dec:
Oxygen: Oxygen in contact with the metal surface can cause oxidation reactions, leading to corrosion.
Water: Water can accelerate the corrosion reactions on the surface of the metal. Salt water, in particular, can increase the corrosion process.
Acids and Bases: Acids and bases can lead to chemical reactions that can cause corrosion on the metal surface.
Electrochemical Reactions: As a result of the formation of electrochemical cells, anode and cathode regions may form on the metal surface, which may cause corrosion.
A number of techniques and methods can be used to prevent corrosion. Here are some common prevention techniques used against corrosion:
Coating and Coating Materials:
To prevent direct oxygen and water contact by coating the metal surface of the materials.
Galvanization: To increase the corrosion resistance by coating the steel surface with zinc.
Passivation:
To prevent oxidation by forming a protective layer on the metal surface. This is usually applied in stainless steel.
Cathodic Protection:
The use of a more electrochemically active metal for the protection of a metal susceptible to corrosion.
Material Selection:
Selection of materials with high corrosion resistance. For example, the use of aluminum or stainless steel.
Surface Treatments:
To use mechanical processes or surface coatings to prevent the onset of corrosion by reducing the surface roughness.
Dry Media Storage:
Storing materials in a dry environment can prevent corrosion by reducing contact with water.
Methods of Cathodic Protection:
To ensure the protection of metal by using electric current. It is widely used, especially for large metal structures such as ships and pipelines.
Corrosion prevention includes a wide range of measures, from material selection to regular maintenance and coating applications. Which method will be used may vary depending on the material, application and environment characteristics.
