Atmospheric Corrosion of Corrugated Iron Roofing Sheet in Oil Producing Locations in Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

The study evaluated the atmospheric corrosion of corrugated iron roofing sheets in rural, urban, and marine environments using rain water harvested from roofs of various ages. Corrosion study was based on the weathering processes leading to high levels of sulphate, chloride and nitrate in rainwater in the three areas. Results showed that roofs below one year and 2 years in age were more susceptible to rusting than roofs above 15 years. The mean corrosion rates were higher in marine (Ibeno) ranging between 0.16 × 103 μm/yr and 2.94 × 103 μm/yr followed by rural (Okobo) 0.08 × 103 - 1.88 × 103 μm/yr, and the least was urban (Uyo) 0.031 × 103 μm/yr - 0.79 × 103 μm/yr. Sulphates, nitrates and chlorides were high in the marine environment, which also coincided with the area of gas flare by Mobil Oil exploration activities. Increase in temperature and acid rain formations in this area led to increased acid rainstorm. This could manifest in the erosion of beach and wetland, inundates low-lying areas (Ibeno, Ibaka (James town), Oron, Utan brama, Utan-Effiong and Mbe-Ndoro) flooding and loss of coastal land and mangrove forests. Above all, gas flaring affects atmospheric water quality in which soil, crops, fruits, streams, and rivers are affected.