The aim of Corrosion Engineering is to extend the lifespan of structures, machines, and components, thereby ensuring safety, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
Corrosion engineers study the causes and types of corrosion, such as uniform corrosion, pitting, crevice corrosion, and stress corrosion cracking, among others. They utilize a variety of techniques to prevent corrosion, such as:
1. Material selection: Choosing materials that are inherently resistant to the types of corrosion they will face in their operating environments.
2. Coatings and linings: Applying protective layers on the material surface to isolate it from the corrosive environment.
3. Cathodic protection: Employing electrochemical techniques to reduce the corrosion rate of a metallic structure.
4. Environmental modification: Changing the environment in which the material operates to make it less corrosive, such as reducing acidity or moisture levels.
5. Design optimization: Modifying the design of components to minimize areas where corrosion is likely to initiate or propagate.
Corrosion engineering is a multidisciplinary field, incorporating elements of materials science, chemistry, physics, and mechanical engineering.