Corrosion and Corrosion Protection

This course is equal to TMM4170 Corrosion. Electrochemical basis of corrosion: Thermodynamics, potential-pH diagram. Kinetics of corrosion reactions: Polarisation curves, mixed potential theory, passivity, effect of mass transfer. Types, causes and propagation of corrosion. Effect of metallurgical, mechanical, microbiological and environmental factors. Quantitative estimation of corrosion rates. Description of mechanisms for types of corrosion for different metal and environment combinations, with special focus on important structural materials. Corrosion protection: Electrochemical methods, inhibitors, surface treatment, effect of material properties, materials selection, design. Corrosion properties of important construction materials. Test methods. Measurement and monitoring of corrosion. Corrosion Management including corrosion monitoring.

The course contains background for understanding various corrosion processes, protection methods and materials selection with practical examples. Based on physical chemical theory, the student shall be able to evaluate if corrosion can occur under specific operating conditions in a given equipment or construction. In cases where corrosion can occur, the student shall be able to determine the probable corrosion type, estimate the corrosion rate and propose the most reasonable protection method with regard to safety, price and environmental considerations. The student shall be able to propose the correct materials, design and operation conditions to reduce the likelihood of corrosion in new equipment and constructions. The student shall also be able to propose necessary laboratory and field tests and take part in research programs to solve specific corrosion problems. In addition, the student shall be able to perform troubleshooting, and select corrosion monitoring methods. The student shall become aware of the role of corrosion protection for sustainable materials use.

Lectures, research-based and applied problem sets, laboratory work and a semester project on corrosion case studies. Problem sets and laboratory work require basic use of data analysis tools, such as plotting programs. Solutions to selected problem sets and assignments have to be found satisfactory to qualify for the final examination. The lectures are normally given in English. If the course language is English the examination papers will be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments. Estimated work load is ca. 200 hours during the semester, and may depend on the student's background.