2040 – 09 – Defining Corrosion and Degradation Resistance

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A material’s ability to resist deterioration is another essential physical property. In metals and ceramics, deterioration is called corrosion, while deterioration in plastics is called degradation. A number of abrasive substances, such as salts, acids, water, pollution or even oxygen can cause a material to corrode or degrade.

Corrosion can happen anywhere on a workpiece. But when it occurs in specific, often undesirable locations, corrosion is called pitting. Crevice corrosion can also occur, wreaking havoc along riveted or bolted joints.

It’s key to point out, though, that not all corrosion causes damage – some corrosion is essential to a finished product. An intentional layer of corrosion can protect some metals through a process called passivisation. Metals like aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel all need corrosion to be used properly.

But it’s the metals that resist corrosion that are most useful in the chemical, food, and manufacturing industries. They help to bring down costs and are essential to creating safer products.