Corrosion vs Rust – How Different are They?

Corrosion and rust are perennial challenges for manufacturing plants. If they remain
uncontrolled, repair and replacement cost can escalate and operational disruptions can
occur at regular intervals. It can also result in serious legal and environmental repercussions.
Most importantly, the breakdown of corroded or rusted equipment can put employee lives
at risk.

Corrosion
Corrosion is a gradual deterioration of materials (metals and non-metals) caused by a
chemical, electrochemical or other reaction with its environment. Corrosion typically
happens when the exposed surface of the material comes in contact with air or moisture.
However, other factors such as salts, acids, chemicals and warm temperature are also known
to expedite the corrosion process.
Corrosion appears blue or green, depending on the material.
The major impact of corrosion is that it degrades structures, strength, appearance,
permeability and other properties of the material.

Rust
Rust is a form of corrosion. It happens due to the oxidation of iron when exposed to both air
and moisture. So, while corrosion can affect different materials, rust is limited to only iron
and its alloys like steel.
Rust appears reddish or brownish-orange in color.

The major impact of rust is that it will make the surface of the iron material crumbly as if it is
peeling off and disintegrating. It can further worsen and accelerate the corrosion process.