Rusting or corrosion of
metals occurs when moisture is present in the air and reacts with the
metal surface to form metal oxides, commonly known as rust. Rusting
or corrosion leads to the degradation of the metal. Metals especially
iron and steel are used for building boilers, aircrafts, automobiles,
ships and for a whole lot of other purposes, because of their high
tensile strength. Corrosion of metals leads to the breakdown of the
structural integrity of the machines and equipment, and this may
cause hazards in the long run. Since, no other material has been
invented or discovered that is stronger and resistant to corrosion
when compared to the commonly used metals, the need for good quality rust inhibitors becomes crucial.
Traditional methods like
coating metals with oil or grease, applying paint, electroplating and
galvanizing help prevent corrosion but fail as long term solutions.
Thus, conventional methods of preventing corrosion are not very
reliable. Rust or corrosion inhibitors are compounds which greatly
reduce the rate of corrosion. A good rust inhibitor should have
characteristics like smooth finish, ability to provide protection
from chemical attacks and should do away with the need for time
consuming surface preparation.