Metal Science and Corrosion
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
This course aims to give a fundamental knowledge on the structure of metals analysing their main characteristics, starting from band structure to predict their physico-chemical properties. The acquired concepts are applied to understand the rationale of corrosion phenomena. Problems strictly connected with corrosion processes are also presented and discussed
Expected learning outcomes
Students will know basic concepts in the science of metals and in electrochemistry, acquiring a fundamental knowledge of corrosion and of the strategies aimed to prevent it or to protect a metal from being corroded. Students, at the end of the lessons, will be able not only to discuss the proprieties of different metals, due to their bond structure, and to rear a Pourbaix diagrams, but also to face different corrosion phenomena, to distinguish among different type of corrosions, to choose the best strategies to prevent corrosion and to protect metals, including the selection of the most suitable metallic materials. Finally, students will be able to solve some specific problems connected with corrosion phenomena.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
The course will be conducted entirely in English and will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to the science of metals: free electron theory and basic concepts of band theory.
- Fundamentals of electrochemistry: thermodynamic and kinetic principles; interpretation and use of Pourbaix diagrams.
- Corrosion: general introduction and electrochemical mechanisms (mixed potential theory, Evans diagrams); passivity and transpassivity; forms of localized corrosion (pitting, crevice corrosion, stress corrosion cracking); other corrosion types (galvanic, intergranular, etc.).
- Corrosion protection methods: cathodic and anodic protection; use of corrosion inhibitors.
- Fundamentals of metallurgy: analysis of the iron-carbon (Fe/C) phase diagram; alloying principles; an overview of steels.
- Selection of metallic materials, with particular emphasis on their application in the chemical industry.
- Introduction to the science of metals: free electron theory and basic concepts of band theory.
- Fundamentals of electrochemistry: thermodynamic and kinetic principles; interpretation and use of Pourbaix diagrams.
- Corrosion: general introduction and electrochemical mechanisms (mixed potential theory, Evans diagrams); passivity and transpassivity; forms of localized corrosion (pitting, crevice corrosion, stress corrosion cracking); other corrosion types (galvanic, intergranular, etc.).
- Corrosion protection methods: cathodic and anodic protection; use of corrosion inhibitors.
- Fundamentals of metallurgy: analysis of the iron-carbon (Fe/C) phase diagram; alloying principles; an overview of steels.
- Selection of metallic materials, with particular emphasis on their application in the chemical industry.
Prerequisites for admission
Competence and knowledge in physical chemistry (including thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics), mathematical analysis, and basic physics.
Prerequisite courses: Physical Chemistry I and II.
Prerequisite courses: Physical Chemistry I and II.
Teaching methods
The course will be delivered through a combination of traditional lectures and interactive sessions, aimed at monitoring students' comprehension and identifying any cognitive difficulties throughout the learning process. Opportunities for in-depth exploration of specific topics may be offered, including those suggested by students. Graphs and visual materials related to the course content will be presented and discussed to encourage interactive dialogue on key concepts.
Numerical exercises and problems related to the topics covered will be regularly proposed and solved during class sessions, reinforcing theoretical understanding through practical application.
Numerical exercises and problems related to the topics covered will be regularly proposed and solved during class sessions, reinforcing theoretical understanding through practical application.
Teaching Resources
- P.A. Cox "The electronic Structure and Chemistry of Solids" Oxford Science Publications
- E. McCafferty Introduction to Corrosion Science, Springer.
- F. Hoffmann: "Solid State Chemistry". Ed. De Gruyter 2023.
- G. Bianchi, F. Mazza Corrosione e protezione dei metallic (Associazione Italiana di Metallurgia)
- Other material on the Ariel website
- E. McCafferty Introduction to Corrosion Science, Springer.
- F. Hoffmann: "Solid State Chemistry". Ed. De Gruyter 2023.
- G. Bianchi, F. Mazza Corrosione e protezione dei metallic (Associazione Italiana di Metallurgia)
- Other material on the Ariel website
Assessment methods and Criteria
Assessment of learning will be conducted through an oral examination, during which the student will discuss at least two topics covered in class, selected by the instructor. The student is expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the selected topics, the ability to present them clearly, and to engage in critical analysis during the discussion.
Evaluation will be based on the following criteria:
- Coherent and structured presentation of knowledge,
- Critical reasoning and analytical skills,
- Clarity and quality of exposition,
- Mastery of subject-specific terminology,
In addition, the student's ability to solve problems similar to those addressed in class and relevant to the course content will be evaluated.
The final grade, out of thirty, will be weighted as follows:
2/3 for the oral discussion
1/3 for problem-solving performance
Evaluation will be based on the following criteria:
- Coherent and structured presentation of knowledge,
- Critical reasoning and analytical skills,
- Clarity and quality of exposition,
- Mastery of subject-specific terminology,
In addition, the student's ability to solve problems similar to those addressed in class and relevant to the course content will be evaluated.
The final grade, out of thirty, will be weighted as follows:
2/3 for the oral discussion
1/3 for problem-solving performance
Professor(s)
Reception:
Wednesday 14-16; Friday 14-16
Dipartimento di Chimica - sezione di Elettrochimica 2nd floor