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Types of Corrosion Prevention

Corrosion can affect metal in almost any environment, weakening vehicles, building structures, plumbing, ventilation systems, and more, making conditions unsafe if the corrosion is allowed to go too far. When a metal is exposed to the environment, it begins a chemical process known as oxidation, which causes rust and other forms of deterioration. There are ways, however, to monitor and prevent corrosion and lengthen the lifespan of the metal.

  1. Environmental Prevention

    • A simple method of preventing corrosion is to ensure that whatever environment the metal is located within remains as dry and clean as possible. Keeping moisture and dirt off the metal's surface can often eliminate corrosive contaminants. This method requires periodic and consistent monitoring, and the use of effective cleaning agents such as detergents and soaps. Obviously, this method is not as suitable for metals in places such as boats, where humidity is a constant presence, so there are other situational methods.

    Paint Prevention

    • When a metal surface is painted, it is sealed against corrosive forces. Several coats of paint may be required to ensure there are no gaps or thin layers that could easily be worn away, thus exposing the metal to atmospheric elements again. Before applying paint to a metal surface, ensure that the metal is as clean and dry as possible, so that corrosive agents do not get trapped beneath the paint and continue to eat away at the structure.

    Chemical Prevention

    • Chemical compounds known as corrosion inhibitors are also available to stall or prevent corrosion progress. Corrosion inhibitors are normally classified as either organic or inorganic. Inorganic inhibitors include metal salts, which neutralize corrosive agents on a surface. Organic inhibitors are chemical compounds that form an oily film on a metal surface which keeps the metal separate from water or other corrosive elements.

    Cathode Prevention

    • This method of corrosion prevention is only applicable to metals weaker than steel. Metal cells are divided into anode and cathode ends, and corrosion creates material loss only on the anode end. Therefore, if a metal surface is galvanized so the entire surface is the cathode end of the metal cells, this shields the anode ends from corrosive effects. This is done by applying an electric current to the metal surface and properly charging it so the metal cells all turn with the cathode ends towards the exposed surface.

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