دراسة معدل التآكل لعينات الحديد في ماء البحر وفعالية الطلاء المقاوم للتآكل

Abstract

This research aims to study the corrosion behavior of iron samples in a natural marine environment (sea water) and evaluate the effectiveness of resistant coating as a means of reducing corrosion. Rectangular iron samples of equal dimensions (5 × 2 × 0.5 cm) were prepared and divided into two groups: an uncoated group, and another covered with a single layer of corrosion-resistant epoxy coating. Samples were sanded to remove impurities and surface oils, and washed and dried before the experiment began to ensure accurate measurements.

Samples were immersed in natural seawater for different time periods of 720, 1440, and 2160 hours, and sample weights were recorded before and after each period to determine the amount of material lost as a result of corrosion. These data were used to calculate the annual corrosion rate for each sample using the standard equation based on lost weight, density, surface area, and exposure time. Graphs were also prepared to illustrate the relationship between time and weight loss, as well as between time and annual corrosion rate, with the aim of analyzing the evolution of corrosion over time and understanding the impact of marine environmental factors on the metal.

The results showed that uncoated samples lost a greater amount of weight than coated samples, reflecting the effect of moisture and ions dissolved in seawater on the unprotected metal. In contrast, the coated samples showed high corrosion resistance, as the coating acted as an effective barrier that prevented the oxidizing medium from reaching the metal surface, and significantly reduced the rate of material loss during all exposure periods. The results also showed that the rate of corrosion gradually increases over time, which reflects the direct nature of the relationship between time and the process of material loss in the metal.

The study points out the importance of using corrosion-resistant paint as an effective means of protection for iron parts in marine and industrial environments, with the need to take into account the type of paint, its thickness, and the method of its application to obtain the best possible protection. The results also provide valuable data that can be used in designing metal equipment maintenance strategies and estimating the lifespan of components under similar operating conditions. Overall, the study confirms that resistant coating represents a practical solution to reduce corrosion and extend the life of iron components in harsh environments.