Corrosion Analysis and Expertise Laboratory

A corrosion study in the laboratory can include different types of materials to be tested. Metals, such as steel, copper and aluminum, are frequently studied because they are often exposed to moisture and air. Metal products, such as galvanized steels and copper-nickel alloys, can also be evaluated for their corrosion resistance. Non-metallic materials, such as coatings, plastics and composites, can also be subjected to corrosion tests to assess their durability in the presence of corrosive liquids. In a corrosion study in the laboratory, various testing techniques can be used to mimic real-world conditions. This makes it possible to predict a material's service life in corrosive environments and plan accordingly.

To prevent corrosion on steel, applying protective coatings such as paint, galvanizing or plating provides a physical barrier between the steel and corrosive agents. In addition, it is important to maintain a dry environment whenever possible, as moisture is a major factor in corrosion.

Using corrosion-resistant materials in harsh environments and designing structures that allow proper drainage also help prevent corrosion. Finally, regular monitoring, preventive maintenance and replacement of corroded parts are essential practices to ensure the durability of steel structures and parts.

A corrosion oxidation test is a specific test designed to assess a material's or coating's resistance to oxidation and corrosion by exposing the sample to severe environmental conditions. The purpose of this test is to simulate the real conditions to which the material will be exposed, especially when it is subjected to high temperatures and atmospheric oxygen. The corrosion oxidation test is commonly used to assess the durability of metallic materials and coatings in exposed environments.

Corrosion is a process that can affect various materials due to environmental and chemical factors.

List of the main causes of corrosion on materials:

1. Electrochemical corrosion: This is the most common form of corrosion, where electrochemical reactions occur on the metal material due to water and ions present in the environment.

2. Oxidation corrosion: Metals react with oxygen in the air to form metal oxides, which gradually weaken the material.

3. Galvanic corrosion: This occurs when two different metals are in contact in a conductive environment.

4. Pitting corrosion: This appears as the formation of small holes or pits on the surface of the material, often very localized.

5. Stress corrosion: This occurs when mechanical stress is combined with corrosive conditions, which can lead to cracking and material failure.

6. Microbiologically influenced corrosion: Bacteria, fungi and algae can colonize the surface of materials, producing corrosive chemicals.

7. Contact corrosion: Exposure to corrosive chemicals such as acids or salts can cause rapid corrosion of materials.

It is important to take these corrosion factors into account when selecting materials and designing your parts, in order to minimize risks and ensure the durability of components and installations.

Our laboratory's expertise in corrosion analysis can be defined by several criteria that demonstrate our ability to provide accurate information on corrosion processes. Here are a few elements to consider when assessing our corrosion expertise :

> Certification and accreditation: FILAB meets high standards in technical competence and testing processes, in accordance with ISO and COFRAC standards.

> Equipment and technologies: Expertise in corrosion analysis relies in part on our state-of-the-art equipment and precise measurement technologies.

> Industry experience: The FILAB laboratory has experience in specific industries, enabling it to carry out tests and analysis for the aerospace, metallurgy, automotive, etc.

> Multiple services: we offer a range of corrosion analysis services, such as accelerated corrosion testing, material durability studies, corrosion-related failure analysis, and support for corrosion prevention and protection.

A true industrial scourge, corrosion phenomena affect the reliability and strength of a metal product and its structure. The presence of corrosion can also raise health, safety or environmental concerns.

Understanding corrosion phenomena is a major challenge in the industrial sector. Failure analysis due to corrosion (leaks, breaks, adhesion problems, etc.) by a specialized laboratory will make it possible to identify the external causes affecting the material, so that your activity can be adapted with durable and reliable solutions.

Corrosion expertise is an in-depth laboratory diagnosis carried out to identify the causes, mechanisms and impacts of a corrosion phenomenon on your materials.

We offer corrosion resistance tests (salt spray and other controlled environments), electrochemical tests and custom simulations according to your needs.

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A specialized laboratory makes it possible to obtain an accurate diagnosis, identify root causes, and define sustainable measures to prevent future corrosion problems.

Corrosion expertise makes it possible to correlate the observed attack modes (pitting, galvanic corrosion, stress corrosion cracking) with the geometry of the parts, multi-material assemblies, and exposure conditions. Metallographic and electrochemical analysis highlights areas of stress concentration or unfavorable electrochemical couples.

Halogens (chlorides, fluorides, bromides) promote highly aggressive localized corrosion mechanisms on copper alloys and thin metals. Their detection makes it possible to identify contamination from processes, fluxes, or storage environments that can lead to premature functional failures.

Why are electrochemical analysis critical for the chemical and petrochemical industries?

Corrosion resistance tests, such as salt spray testing, make it possible to assess the resistance of materials, assemblies, and coatings in severe corrosive environments. They are used to compare different protection solutions and validate material choices before industrialization.

An investigation into the onset of corrosion makes it possible to determine whether the phenomenon is linked to a surface preparation defect, a coating/substrate incompatibility, or post-treatment degradation. It relies on the analysis of interfaces, adhesion, and the continuity of protective layers.

Corrosion is a chemical or electrochemical degradation phenomenon affecting metallic materials in contact with their environment (air, water, chemicals, humidity, etc.).

It can appear as pitting, cracking, material loss, or delamination of metal surfaces.

A thorough analysis of these corrosion phenomena makes it possible to prevent failures and ensure the durability of parts and structures.