Corrosion Inhibition
Corrosion is a major, and sometimes unexpected, cost for many businesses. Many processes, from water handling to electrical wiring and from motor vehicles to storage facilities, are regularly exposed to corrosive agents and require protection. The process of protecting equipment from damage due to corrosion is known as corrosion inhibition and has become an important industrial field.
Corrosion inhibition takes a variety of forms and involves a variety of materials. The key to any corrosion inhibition system is to reduce the rate of attack of the corrosive agent, the presence of the corrosive agent itself or the rate at which it interferes with the integrity of the material. Commonly used materials for corrosion inhibition include coatings, such as paint, phosphates and chromates; protective coatings such as organic polymers and epoxies; and inhibitors, usually organic-based compounds.
Organic inhibitors are the most common form of corrosion inhibitors used today. Organic inhibitors work by forming a protective film on metal surfaces, preventing direct contact and reaction between the metal and the corrosive agent. This protective film helps minimize the corrosion potential of the metal and can offer a long-term solution. Common organic inhibitors include mercaptans, polyamines, and phosphates.
Organic polymers are also effective corrosion inhibitors. Polymers are produced from polymeric compounds that have a variety of different structures, each of which can offer protection to the metal surface. The properties of the polymeric material can be altered to suit different environmental conditions and the type of metal being protected.
Organic epoxies are also used in corrosion inhibition. These include an epoxy primer, a resin coating and a topcoat to provide a long-lasting barrier. Epoxies are generally more effective for smaller, tighter spaces, as they can fill and seal tiny cracks, which can lead to corrosion.
In comparison to organic coatings and inhibitors, metal phosphates and chromates are also often used as corrosion inhibitors. These materials are applied to metal surfaces as a thin layer and work by forming an insoluble layer that reduces the reactivity of the metal surface to corrosion. These materials are more effective in providing a protective layer than organic inhibitors and coatings, however they are usually more expensive and can be hazardous to use.
No matter what type of corrosion inhibitor is chosen, it is important to select the right one for the specific application at hand. Corrosion inhibitors may be used alone or in conjunction with other corrosion prevention methods. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the chosen corrosion inhibitor is compatible with the material being protected and can withstand the environmental conditions it will be exposed to. The effectiveness of the corrosion inhibitor will vary depending on the location, climate and other environmental factors present. By selecting the right corrosion inhibitor and taking the necessary precautions, businesses can help to protect their investments and products from potentially costly damage due to corrosion.
