To effectively mitigate corrosion, what is often used in conjunction with a protective coating?

The use of cathodic protection in conjunction with protective coatings is a well-established practice in corrosion mitigation. Protective coatings serve as a barrier to shield the metal surface from environmental factors that can lead to corrosion. However, these coatings can be damaged by scratches, impacts, or chemical exposure, which exposes the underlying metal and leaves it vulnerable to corrosion.

Cathodic protection complements protective coatings by addressing the electrochemical processes that cause corrosion. It involves applying a direct current to the metal, which reduces the electrochemical potential and effectively reverses the corrosion process on the metal surface. This method can either be achieved through sacrificial anodes, which corrode preferentially, or through impressed current systems that actively supply electrons to the metal.

By utilizing cathodic protection alongside protective coatings, the overall effectiveness in preventing corrosion is significantly enhanced. The combination ensures that even if the coating experiences damage, the cathodic protection can provide an additional layer of defense, maintaining the integrity of the metal structure over time.