aircraft corrosion

Rust is the name given to the common compound (Fe2O3) when iron combines with oxygen to form iron oxide. Rusting is known as corrosion of iron and its alloys such as steel or cast irons. Rust can be found on cars, metal pipes, aircrafts and anywhere with iron, copper and aluminium. Corrosion can be concentrated locally to form a split or crack, or it can extend across a wide area which causes corroding on surfaces. Because corrosion is a diffusion-controlled process, it occurs mainly on exposed surfaces.

Besides costing millions of dollars in aircraft inspections and repair work, corrosion can lead to massive safety risks if it is left untreated. Aircraft mechanics and technicians have to be cautious in looking for signs of metal corrosion. All aircraft structures are made of metal, and the most insidious form of damage to these structures is corrosion. Metal corrosion occurs after a period of contact with chemical or electrochemical agents, like acids, alkalis, and salts. The corrosion can appear as a discoloration due to chemical deposits, or as a pitting of the metal.
A major contributing factor to aircraft corrosion is the climate. Aircrafts that operate in marine climates are particularly exposed to metal corrosion.
While water vapour already has a corrosive effect, the water vapour and salt combination found in marine climates is a powerful corrosive agent.

After aircraft metal is manufactured, it is immediately protected with corrosion resistant alloy and coated with various metals, paints, and chemical conversions so that it is protected from the detremental effects of the environment that surrounds it. While in use, additional moisture barriers, such as viscous lubricants and protectants may be added to the surface of the metal to prevent corrosion on aircrafts. However, the job is not finished and it will take inspections and preventative maintenance to keep the aircraft metal from corroding and needing to be replaced. Chipped paint needs to be