ferzésgátlás

Ferzésgátlás, commonly referred to as corrosion inhibition, is a protective strategy that reduces or eliminates the corrosion of metals and alloys in various environments. Corrosion occurs when a metal reacts with its surroundings, typically involving oxygen, moisture, and electrolytes, leading to the formation of oxides, hydroxides, or other compounds. By applying inhibitors, the rate of electron transfer at the metal surface is significantly slowed, preserving material integrity and extending service life.

Inhibitors function through several mechanisms. Some form a passive film on the metal surface, sealing it against corrosive agents. Others adsorb onto the surface, blocking active sites and preventing anodic or cathodic reactions. Chemical inhibitors may also react with chloride ions or other aggressive species, neutralizing their corrosive potential. Depending on the application, inhibitors can be organic molecules such as amines, phosphates, or dithiocarbamates, inorganic compounds like chromates or zirconates, or biogenic substances derived from plants.

Industrial sectors that extensively use corrosion inhibitors include oil and gas pipelines, marine structures, automotive components, steel production, and storage tanks. In the oil and gas industry, inhibitors are added to drilling muds, well fluids, and pipeline coatings to counteract sulfate-reducing bacteria and corrosive hydrocarbons. In marine applications, biocidal inhibitors protect hulls and offshore platforms from biofouling and marine corrosion.

Regulatory bodies around the world, such as the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States and the European Chemicals Agency in the European Union, classify and monitor inhibitors for environmental impact. The development of green inhibitors—those with lower toxicity and minimal ecological footprint—has become a major research focus. Advances in surface science and computational modeling continue to improve the selection and optimization of inhibitors for specific metals and corrosive environments, contributing to safer, more sustainable infrastructure worldwide.