What is the term used for the protective layer formed during corrosion prevention treatments?

The term "passivation layer" refers to a protective layer that forms on the surface of a metal during corrosion prevention treatments. This layer is typically created through the oxidation process and acts as a barrier to further corrosion. When metal surfaces, such as stainless steel, are exposed to certain environments, they can undergo a chemical reaction that leads to the formation of this passive film. This film significantly increases the corrosion resistance of the metal by preventing the corrosive agents from reaching the underlying metal, thereby enhancing the durability and longevity of the material.

In the context of corrosion prevention, the passivation layer is instrumental in providing a self-healing capability—a feature that allows the passive film to regenerate if it is damaged, which is not necessarily true for all other types of protective layers or films. Understanding this concept is vital in applications of cathodic protection and corrosion control.

The other terms, while related to corrosion protection, do not specifically describe the passive film process. An inhibitor film may provide temporary protection but does not imply the same self-healing properties or permanence as a passivation layer. The oxide layer, while relevant in certain contexts, can vary widely in composition and may not always serve the same protective function. A corrosion barrier is a more general term that could