Corrosion

Definition of Corrosion

Corrosion is defined as a refined metal that is naturally converted to a more stable form such as its hydroxide or sulphide state. Metal corrodes when it reacts with another substance such as oxygen, hydrogen or bacteria. Corrosion can also happen when metals are placed under too much stress causing the material to crack. Corrosion leads to deterioration of the material.

Stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh conditions such as salt water is expected.

In this section you can find newsitems related to all types of corrosion such as stress corrosion cracking, intergranular corrosion, pitting, and corrosion fatigue. If you wish to include your news release on our website and email newsletter, please feel free to contact the editor.

ArcelorMittal extends collaboration with University

ArcelorMittal is extending its collaboration with the University of Luxembourg by sponsoring the endowed chair in steel and façade engineering at the University.

Henkel introduces bacteride- free lubricant

Henkel introduces new Bonderite duaLCys process for the metalworking industry. Bonderite duaLCys process exploits lubricant-cleaner synergies to reduce costs, boost performance, save energy, lower waste generation, and improve working conditions. In the Bonderite duaLCys process, the cleaning fluid is recycled into the lubricant bath, rather than being discarded as waste. Martin Desinger, business development manager, Lubricants, Europe, at Henkel Adhesive Technologies said: “Recycling the cleaning fluid instead of throwing it away, and making use of synergies between it and the water-soluble cutting fluid, results in an excellent combination of high lubricity, superior part cleanliness and excellent corrosion protection.” This new process is the synergy between a lubricant and a cleaner: Bonderite C-NE 10466 high-performance, water-based neutral cleaner, and Bonderite L-MR 21466 cutting fluid.

Interactive welding animation in French

The Euro Inox self-instruction tool “Guidelines on the Welded Fabrication of Stainless Steels” is currently available in French.

RINA Group adds engineering expertise

newsitemThe independent engineering consulting company of RINA Group, D’Appolonia is headquartered in Italy and has recently strengthened its expertise in the marine offshore oil and gas sector by acquiring a majority stake in SeaTech Srl. SeaTech gives analysis, design services and also manages projects for offshore pipelines, subsea systems and structures, met-ocean monitoring systems and provides engineering supervision services on site.

Outokumpu delivers 245 tons of duplex

Outokumpu has delivered one of the largest orders of 245 tons of Forta LDX 2101 lean duplex stainless steel for the construction of three big oil storage tanks at the Antwerp harbor in Belgium.

PPG adds to Delfleet Essential

The PPG Industries commercial coatings group has enhanced the DELFLEET® ESSENTIAL® commercial paint system with the addition of ESU480 2.1-VOC (volatile organic compound) Epoxy Primer.

Airbus and its partners develop CRES

Airbus partners with Messier Bugatti Dowty, Carpenter Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre at the University of Sheffield, to develop the maturity of a new corrosion-resistant stainless steel alloy known as “CRES” – for future use in the landing gear components.

Stainless UK giant bars for Scottish quay

Stainless UK have supplied 23 giant solid round stainless steel bars with a 5” diameter and 3m length for the construction of an extension to the quay at Campbeltown Harbour in Scotland.

ENEC completes installation of Unit 2 steam generators

newsitemThe ENEC has announced the successful installation of its Unit 2 SGs at Barakah. In a pressurized water reactor, the steam generator acts as a heat exchanger where the water carrying the heat generated from the nuclear reaction is used to turn demineralized water into steam.

POSCO partners with Geumgang to develop water reservoir

POSCO, a multinational steel-making company headquartered in Pohang, South Korea, signed a memorandum of understanding with Geumgang, a South Korean manufacturer of stainless steel water tanks and water pipes, on co-development and structure analysis of stainless steel water tanks for large-scale water reservoirs. Photo courtesy of POSCO The existing large-scale water reservoirs are made of concrete, causing problems such as water leakage due to cracks and an unsanitary water supply environment.


Corrosion can be a big problem because it can cause significant damage and deterioration to various materials, particularly metals. We have listed below several reasons why corrosion is a significant concern:

Structural Integrity: Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of materials. When metals corrode, they lose their strength and load-bearing capacity, which can lead to failures and collapses in infrastructure, buildings, bridges, pipelines, and other critical structures.

Economic Impact: Corrosion imposes substantial economic costs. The direct expenses associated with corrosion include repairs, replacements, and maintenance of corroded structures and equipment. Additionally, there are indirect costs such as production losses, decreased efficiency, and increased energy consumption due to the effects of corrosion on industrial processes and machinery.

Environmental Consequences: Corrosion can have adverse environmental effects. For example, in the case of pipelines, corrosion can lead to leaks and spills of hazardous substances, causing soil and water pollution and damaging ecosystems.

Health and Safety Risks: Corrosion can create health and safety risks in various ways. For instance, when corrosion affects pipelines or storage tanks carrying toxic substances, it can lead to leaks or releases that endanger the health of workers, communities, and the environment.

Maintenance and Downtime: Corrosion necessitates regular maintenance and inspection programs to detect and mitigate its effects. This requires significant time, effort, and financial resources. Additionally, when corrosion-related issues arise, it often requires shutting down operations, causing downtime and productivity losses.

Given these reasons, it is crucial to understand and address corrosion through preventive measures, protective coatings, corrosion-resistant materials, regular inspections and testing (ASTM B117), and appropriate maintenance practices to mitigate its impact and ensure the longevity and safety of structures and equipment.