Corrosieremmer

Corrosieremmer is a general term for substances and systems designed to prevent or slow the electrochemical process of corrosion on metals. In practice, it encompasses corrosion inhibitors used in liquids and gases, protective coatings and sealants, and sacrificial protection methods such as galvanic anodes. The term is rooted in Dutch, where remmer means inhibitor or stopper; in English literature the concept is typically described as corrosion inhibitors or corrosion-protective systems.

Common forms include inhibitor additives in water or acids (organic amines, carboxylates, phosphates, nitrites) that adsorb on metal surfaces, protective coatings and passivation layers such as epoxies and zinc phosphate primers, and sacrificial protectors like zinc or magnesium anodes that corrode preferentially.

Mechanisms include adsorption and blocking of active sites, formation of stable barrier films, pH adjustment, complexation of metal ions, and galvanic protection by sacrificial metals.

Applications span industrial cooling waters, oil and gas pipelines, automotive corrosion protection, maritime equipment, reinforced concrete structures, and a range of consumer products.

Effectiveness depends on environment, concentration, temperature, and materials compatibility. Some inhibitors are toxic or tightly regulated; newer formulations aim for lower toxicity and greater environmental compatibility. Historically, chromates were used as corrosion inhibitors but are restricted in many jurisdictions due to toxicity concerns.

See also: corrosion, corrosion inhibitors, protective coatings, passivation, sacrificial anodes, galvanic protection, inhibitor testing.