Friday 24 October 2008
Increasing the corrosion-resistance of metal alloys
AMERICAN scientists have
found ways to make metal alloys which are more resistant to corrosion.
Oxide scales develop on the outer surface of alloys, creating a protective barrier that prevents carbon-bearing molecules from getting into the alloy and causing corrosion.
However, scientists at the US Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory have discovered networks of continuous metal nanoparticles in the coating. These let the carbon dissolve and diffuse through the layer, leading to increased corrosion rates and brittleness.
According to the scientists, by eliminating these nanoparticles, alloys can be made to be more corrosion-resistant and longer-lasting. They have already created 22kg batches of modified alloys which are said to have ten times the life expectancy of similar commercial alloys.
The researchers say these alloys will be commercialised in due course, and will be of interest to the chemical, petrochemical and refining industry.
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