Corrosion is a major concern in the aviation industry because it can significantly reduce the strength and reliability of aircraft structures. It is caused by the chemical reaction of a material with its environment, which can lead to the degradation and weakening of the material over time.

Corrosion can occur on any metal surface, but it is particularly common in aircraft due to their exposure to harsh environments such as saltwater, extreme temperatures, and deicing chemicals. It can also occur on non-metal surfaces, such as composites, due to moisture infiltration or chemical attack.

There are several types of corrosion that can affect aircraft, including:

• Uniform corrosion: This occurs evenly over the surface of the material and is often the result of exposure to a corrosive environment.

• Pitting corrosion: This type of corrosion creates small, deep pits in the material’s surface. It is often caused by the presence of contaminants, such as salt, in the environment.

• Galvanic corrosion: This occurs when two different types of metal are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, such as saltwater. The more noble metal (less reactive) is protected while the less noble metal (more reactive) corrodes.

• Stress corrosion cracking: This type of corrosion occurs when the material is subjected to both tensile stress and a corrosive environment. It is often found in high-stress areas such as wing spars and fuselage frames.

To prevent corrosion, aircraft manufacturers use corrosion-resistant materials and coatings, and aircraft operators must follow a rigorous maintenance schedule that includes regular inspections and corrosion prevention measures. In addition, NDT techniques, such as ultrasonic testing and eddy current testing, can be used to detect corrosion in aircraft structures before it becomes a serious problem.