Rust is a type of corrosion that occurs on metal surfaces when iron reacts with oxygen and water. The chemical reaction that causes rust is called oxidation. The oxidation process eats away at the metal and creates visible rust on the metal’s surface when metal is exposed to any type of moisture as well as humidity in the air. The iron atoms in the metal react with the oxygen molecules in the air to form iron oxide, also known as rust.
The chemical reaction can be represented by the following equation:
Iron(Fe) + oxygen(O) + water(H2O) = iron oxide (rust)(FeO2)
Rust can occur on any iron-containing metal, including steel, iron, and cast iron. The rate at which rust forms on metal surfaces depends on the level of humidity, the amount of oxygen present, as well as the type of metal.
The lifespan of an uncoated metal that is susceptible to rust is significantly shorter than one that is coated with a zinc-rich cold galvanizing compound. When left untreated, rust can fully corrode metal into a dry oxide powder(What Causes Rust in Metals, n.d.).
Rust is a constant challenge, costing industries billions. As we rely on mined metals, what innovative solutions can the mining and materials science communities collaborate on to enhance metal resistance and reduce waste? Comment below!
