We have all seen those orange rust stains that form on metals when the iron molecules in the metal react with oxygen in the presence of water. However, metals also react to acids and strong industrial chemicals, causing oxidation.
If there is no control, the corrosion will continue to advance until the metal disintegrates, which can lead to failure, if it is pipes or other industrial equipment. This can be prevented by choosing corrosion resistant metals.
Alloys are products of the combination of different noble metals, even different hardnesses. Here are some corrosion resistant metals and metal alloys:
Copper, bronze and brass : Copper oxidizes over time and forms a green layer that protects the metal from corrosion. Bronze is a mixture of copper, tin, and minor amounts of other elements, making it a more corrosion-resistant alloy than copper. Brass is an alloy of copper, zinc and other elements, so it also resists corrosion.
Aluminum : Aluminum alloys contain little iron and, without this element, the metal does not rust, but it can generate a reaction. When the alloy is exposed to water, a sheet of aluminum oxide quickly forms on the surface. This hardened layer is quite resistant to corrosion and protects the metal beneath it. It is used in aircraft, cars and bicycles.
Iron-nickel steel: Used in certain types of high-power nuclear reactors as high-temperature protective casings to prevent corrosion of uranium rods.
Stainless steel: It is a corrosion-resistant chromium-manganese steel alloy, which is widely used in various fields, such as petrochemical industry, heavy engineering, construction, electric power generation, shipbuilding, food industry and the appliances.
Galvanized steel: It is a carbon steel alloy galvanized or covered by a layer of zinc, an element that acts as a barrier that prevents oxygen and water from reaching the steel, to protect it from corrosion.
Tantalum: It offers three advantages at the same time: it is strong, thick and resistant to corrosion. It is made of high-quality metal, such as tungsten. It is used in electronics and high-strength materials for personal computers, telephones, cameras, and electronics.
Titanium aluminide: It is an alloy of titanium and aluminum resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, but it is quite brittle and lacks malleability. However, it has proven useful in the production of special protective coatings.
Source : https://wiktac.com/quimica/los-metales-y-aleaciones-metalicas-mas-duras-del-universo/
Photo: ShutterStock
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