Corrosion of metals

Abstract

After extraction of a metal from its ore (i. e. a metallic compound), it is generally alloyed with other elements, formed into a shape for a given purpose, and the resulting object put into service. But from the moment of extraction, a metal has an inherent tendency to react with its environment, either liquid or gaseous. This reaction is a natural, spontaneous process; the metal forms a metallic compound and corrosion occurrs.