Corrosion is a natural process that converts a refined metal to a more chemically stable state, such as oxide, hydroxide, or sulfide, thus damaging the surface of metal.
For example, when iron rusts, it loses its toughness, and the rusty iron crumbles readily.
Importance of prevention of corrosion
Corrosion can cause metal purity to deteriorate.
Corrosion may also cause the loss of several critical metal characteristics.
When a metal structure corrodes, it loses strength, and the risk of structural collapse increases.
Corrosive attacks on metal can significantly raise the cost of structural maintenance if corrosion prevention measures are not used.
Corrosion can also be harmful to humans.
An example would be rusty iron cuts that puncture the skin and cause tetanus.
Thus, prevention of corrosion is much needed and very important.