What is corrosion?

Corrosion is the gradual decomposition or destruction of a material by chemical action, often due to an electrochemical reaction.  Corrosion may be caused by stray current electrolysis, galvanic corrosion caused by dissimilar metals, or differential-concentration cells.  Corrosion starts at the surface of a material and moves inward.

In terms of water, essentially, the water slowly eats away at a metal surface causing damage over time.

Corrosivity is an indication of the corrosiveness of a water.  The corrosiveness of a water is described by the water’s pH, alkalinity, hardness, temperature, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen concentration, and the Langelier Index.

Dare County Water Department uses corrosion inhibitors to slow the rate of corrosion.  Professor Faucet uses his surfboard turned tool kit to fight Corrosion.