Fémkorrózió

Fémkorrózió, often translated as metal corrosion, is the degradation of a metal through chemical or electrochemical reactions with its environment. This process typically results in the formation of oxides, hydroxides, or sulfides of the metal, which can weaken the metal's structure and alter its appearance. The most common form of corrosion is rust, which is the oxidation of iron. Factors influencing the rate of corrosion include the type of metal, the composition of the surrounding environment (e.g., presence of moisture, salts, acids, or oxygen), and temperature.

Different metals exhibit varying degrees of susceptibility to corrosion. For instance, noble metals like gold and platinum are highly resistant, while more reactive metals like iron and aluminum are more prone to degradation. Electrochemical corrosion occurs when dissimilar metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, leading to the formation of galvanic cells where one metal acts as the anode and corrodes, while the other acts as the cathode.

Corrosion can have significant economic and safety implications. It can lead to structural failures, reduce the lifespan of manufactured goods, and contaminate products. Various methods are employed to prevent or mitigate corrosion, including protective coatings (like paint or plating), cathodic protection, alloying to create more resistant materials, and controlling the environmental conditions. Understanding the mechanisms and factors involved in fémkorrózió is crucial for material selection, design, and maintenance across numerous industries.