Koroze

Koroze is a term used in some languages to denote corrosion, the deterioration of materials due to chemical or electrochemical reactions with the environment. While most commonly associated with metals, corrosion can affect polymers and concrete as well. The primary mechanism in metals is oxidation, where metal atoms lose electrons to oxygen in the presence of moisture, forming oxides, hydroxides, or chlorides. Other important forms include galvanic corrosion, which occurs when two dissimilar metals are in contact in an electrolyte; pitting corrosion, which creates localized pits; crevice corrosion at gaps; intergranular corrosion along grain boundaries; and stress corrosion cracking, where chemical attack combines with tensile stress to cause cracking.

Environment and material choice heavily influence corrosion. Factors include humidity, temperature, salinity, pollutants, alloy composition, protective films, and the presence of electrolytes (such as seawater or deicing salts). Concrete also suffers reinforcement corrosion when chloride ingress reaches steel reinforcement, leading to spalling and structural weakness.

Prevention and control strategies include selecting corrosion-resistant materials, applying protective coatings or paints, plating (such as galvanization), cathodic protection, corrosion inhibitors, and designing to minimize crevices and differential aeration. Regular inspection, maintenance, and monitoring using techniques such as weight loss measurements, linear polarization resistance, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy help manage risk.

Economic impact is significant, influencing maintenance costs, downtime, and safety. Standards for testing and mitigation are established by bodies such as ASTM and ISO. See also corrosion science, protective coatings, and cathodic protection.