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.

New corrosion test loop with capacity

In the frame of an industrial consortium (CORRTEX) gathering 6 partners located in the “Rhône-Alpesâ€? region, The French Corrosion Institute is operating with the French Petroleum Institute and New Energies (IFPEN) a corrosion test loop with capacity (200bar / 350°C).

Indian stainless steel consumption touches 2.5kg/capita

Per capita consumption of stainless steel in India has touched a new peak of 2.5 kg in 2019, against 1.2 kg per capita in 2010, registering an increase of over 100% in a period of just eight years.

Sanicro® 35 alloy receives Sandvik Innovation Prize

A new innovative grade, Sanicro® 35 has been developed with a high-performance material that is new to the market. The new versatile corrosion resistant alloy has now been awarded the Sandvik Innovation Prize.

BUMAX secures an order for Belgian offshore wind farm

Swedish manufacturer of premium stainless steel fasteners, BUMAX has received a large order for corrosion resistant and maintenance free studs to be used for a wind farm off the Belgian coast.

Sandvik inaugurates titanium powder plant in Sweden

Sandvik recently inaugurated its highly automated titanium powder plant in Sandviken, Sweden. The investment is an important step in meeting the increasing market demands for titanium powder for additive manufacturing.

3D Systems to conduct R&D for DMP of Nickel Alloys

3D Systems (DDD) recently announced that it has been awarded a contract to conduct research and development of a Corrosion Performance Design Guide for Direct Metal Printing of Nickel Alloys.

ABB provide electrification & control system for Baoxin

ABB has won an order to provide its state-of-the-art electrification and control systems for a production line project of Ningbo Baoxin Stainless Steel Co.

Next generation duplex stainless steel

NIPPON STEEL Stainless Steel Corporation has developed as a commemorative product of the merger the unique duplex stainless steel “NSSTS2351â€? (23Cr-5Ni-1Mo-N) which is the upper grade for SUS316/316L (hereinafter the “SUS316 seriesâ€?) and able to replace the SUS316 series.

Stalatube: a supplier of stainless steel bus

Stalatube is the service provider in stainless steel bus and coach body and chassis tubes and components. Its aim is not only to help customers create the world’s most light-weight bus body while maintaining impact safety but also to provide them the most sustainable solutions in the market.

Hardide-A coating improves fatigue life

New independent testing has proven that Hardide-A tungsten carbide/tungsten metal matrix composite coating improves the fatigue life of metal components by 4.5% compared to uncoated substrates.


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.