chemical corrosion
	A primary factor governing corrosion behavior of metallic coatings in liquid chemical environments is the pH of the chemical solution. Galvanizing performs well in solutions of pH above 5.5 and below 12.5 (see figure below). This should not be considered a hard and fast rule, because factors such as agitation, aeration, temperature, polarization, and the presence of inhibitors may affect the rate of corrosion. Within the pH range of 5.5 - 12.5, a protective film forms on the zinc surface and the corrosion rate is very slow. The exact chemical composition of the protective film is somewhat dependent upon the specific chemical environment. Since many liquids fall within the pH range of 5.5 - 12.5, galvanized steel containers are widely used in storing and transporting many chemical solutions. Relative Corrosion Rate vs. pH  ^ back to top