Atmospheric corrosion of steel and cooper in 9 zones of Falcón State

In the state of Falcón, more than 680 Km of coastline and differing weather conditions cause severe corrosion problems. The selection and coating of materials, and maintenance programs are specified according to these atmospheric conditions. A 5-year atmospheric corrosion study has been performed in 9 zones of the state. Bare 80 cm2 specimens of mild steel 1010 and 99.5% Cu were exposed. Atmospheric conditions and their influence on the corrosion process were evaluated in the study. It was determined that atmospheric corrosion is most intense in Adicora; in Ricoa the least atmospheric corrosion was registered. Results confirmed that the high chloride concentration, humidity and dust in Adicora were determinants in the high rate of corrosion.