Materials Degradation: Metallic Materials

Abstract

AbstractLow alloy steels, extensively used for structural applications, are prone to atmospheric corrosion. Atmospheric corrosion of these metallic materials causes nearly five times more loss than other forms of corrosion. Typically, the ability to form an oxide layer is a proven strategy for protection against atmospheric corrosion. But the oxides formed on the low alloy steels are not protective. However, composition modification can promote the passive protective layer formation in these steels. Furthermore, weather resistance in such compositionally modified low alloy steel is governed by the nature and structure of the oxide layer formed. Therefore, a thorough investigation of the chemistry and structure of oxide layer(s) has been carried out in different environments to determine its protective nature. The protectiveness indices were also defined based on such studies. This chapter provides a perspective on the historical development, mechanisms of the oxide layer growth, outlook, and challenges in corrosion-resistant low alloy steel development.KeywordsAtmospheric corrosionWeathering steelWeather resistantPatinaAlloy developmentLow alloy steel