
The Science Behind Corrosion and How to Prevent It Introduction Corrosion is a natural process that deteriorates metals and weakens their structural integrity over time. It occurs when metals react with environmental elements such as moisture, oxygen, and chemicals, leading to damage and potential failure. Understanding the science behind corrosion and adopting effective prevention techniques can save billions of dollars in maintenance and repair costs across various industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and marine applications. What is Corrosion? Corrosion is an electrochemical reaction that causes metals to degrade. The most common form of corrosion is rust, which occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture to form iron oxide. This process weakens the metal and can lead to structural failure. The Chemistry of Corrosion Corrosion typically involves an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction. When a metal comes into contact with an electrolyte (such as water or h...