passivaatioista

Passivaatio, commonly translated as passivation, is a surface treatment process that reduces the chemical reactivity of a material. This is typically achieved by forming a thin, protective film on the surface. For metals, this often involves the formation of an oxide layer. For example, stainless steel is passivated through the formation of a chromium oxide layer, which makes it resistant to corrosion. This process does not remove material but rather modifies the surface chemistry to enhance its inertness.

The passivation layer is usually very thin, often on the order of nanometers, and can be formed naturally through exposure to an oxidizing environment or induced through specific chemical treatments. For stainless steel, this is commonly done using nitric acid or citric acid solutions. The effectiveness of passivation depends on the material's composition and the conditions under which the protective layer is formed. This treatment is crucial in many industries, including aerospace, medical devices, and chemical processing, where corrosion resistance and material longevity are paramount. It helps prevent unwanted reactions, maintains surface integrity, and extends the useful life of components.