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Dr Nick Stevens, BSc PhD, Adam Stephenson, Prof Robert Akid, Dr Robert Lindsay, Prof Stuart Lyon, Dr Michele Curioni, and Zhu Liu

If you have ever encountered rusty car bodies, leaking pipes, tarnished silverware or the green patina of a copper roof then you have experienced corrosion in action. This course, from the Corrosion@Manchester team in collaboration with AkzoNobel, will teach you why metals corrode, what the environmental consequences are, how much corrosion costs and how corrosion can be controlled. It is designed for students, householders, teachers, professionals and anyone in-between.

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If you have ever encountered rusty car bodies, leaking pipes, tarnished silverware or the green patina of a copper roof then you have experienced corrosion in action. This course, from the Corrosion@Manchester team in collaboration with AkzoNobel, will teach you why metals corrode, what the environmental consequences are, how much corrosion costs and how corrosion can be controlled. It is designed for students, householders, teachers, professionals and anyone in-between.

The aim of the course is to introduce the complex world of corrosion and corrosion control. While a full appreciation of corrosion science involves elements of materials science, electrochemistry and physics while corrosion engineering requires a practical knowledge of corrosion failures and engineering design this course does not need an extensive background knowledge. The course mirrors elements of the Corrosion Control Engineering teaching programme at The University of Manchester for final-year undergraduates and masters-level postgraduates and is used as a supplementary learning resource by our students.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1: Principles of Corrosion
In Week 1 we show you the scientific and engineering concepts that are important to an understanding of corrosion in practise. Section 1 provides a brief outline of what corrosion is, how much it costs and how corrosion engineers can help. Section 2 lists, with examples, the eight types of corrosion and shows the important of good engineering design on corrosion control. Section 3 focuses on materials properties and introduces how the corrosion of metals (zinc) may be understood. Section 4 looks directly at the economic and social consequences of corrosion. In section 5 we pick up the pace to focus on the science of electrochemical corrosion. Finally, in section 6, we wind up with a selection of corrosion failures chosen from the Corrosion@Manchester museum.
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Week 2: Cathodic Protection
This week, will discuss how cathodic protection works and how it can be applied in practice to protect metallic structures.Firstly, we’ll discuss some of the basic principles behind cathodic protection, and we will see how some of the concepts you have learned in the other units are applied in a cathodic protection scenario.Subsequently, we’ll discuss some aspects related to the design of cathodic protection systems, such as for example the criteria that have to be satisfied to achieve a good level of corrosion protection, or the method used to assess the requirements for an existing structure in terms of cathodic protection current.Finally, we’ll touch on cathodic protection of reinforced concrete structures, discussing the factors that contribute to good concrete quality and discussing how we can protect the reinforcement steel bars by using cathodic protection.This week’s material is split into 6 sessions. Each session lasts approximately 20 minutes; at the end of each session, there will be a quiz to test your knowledge.
Week 3: Surface Engineering
In Week 3, we will introduce Surface Engineering. The learning materials for this week are organised into five sections. Throughout the week, we will clarify what surface engineering is and why surfaces are important. We will look into how coatings protect surfaces from corrosion and will discuss coating design criteria. We will also consider various Surface Engineering techniques. Finally, we will turn our attention to industrial applications of coatings for corrosion protection, coating performance and failure mechanisms.
Week 4: Oilfield Corrosion and Control
Week 4 provides an introduction to oilfield corrosion science and engineering. You will learn about pertinent corrosion phenomena, as well as other degradation processes, along with approaches to minimise facility degradation. Specific topics include: types of oilfield equipment; sweet/sour corrosion; seawater corrosion; scaling; erosion; corrosion prediction; corrosion inhibition; corrosion management. All content in this section is section is licensed under Creative Commons Atrribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License

Good to know

Know what's good
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Teaches electrochemical corrosion, which is a core mechanism behind the corrosion of metals in practise
Provides multiple resources to help in learning, including videos, readings, and discussions
Meant for everyone from students to professionals, covering both the basics of corrosion and its control
Includes a number of case studies of different types of corrosion phenomena and failures to use as real-world examples
Emphasizes economic and environmental consequences to drive home the impact of corrosion
Suitable for students, householders, teachers and professionals with no background in corrosion

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Reviews summary

Corrosion and the environment

Learners say this course is largely positive with a strong emphasis on corrosion control in oil and gas industries. Informative and practical lectures cover essential concepts such as corrosion science, engineering, protection methods, and case studies. Despite the course being well-received, learners express disappointment over the lack of certification upon completion. Overall, this course is recommended for beginners and professionals seeking an introduction to corrosion science and engineering.
Includes real-world examples and case studies.
"I have learned a lot in special corrosion techniques new, believe this course to rise the concept about the electrochemistry"
"Very interesting course, I gained massive information especially in the last session its very useful for me in my current role Thanks your great efforts."
Provides valuable and detailed information.
"The course was very well done. It helped significantly in improving my knowledge in the area of corrosion and corrosion protection."
"Very rich content. Delivered by professionals. Excellent slides and good video links. Thank you."
Emphasizes corrosion control in oil and gas industries.
"This course is insightful. It provides deep understanding of corrosion effect and its control, most especially in the oil and gas industry."
"The program provided me with valuable education and information. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity. I learned a lot."
Does not offer a certificate upon completion.
"Why don't we get Certificate For this course.After solving this number of assignment we Deserve Certificate"
"After completing a lot of challenging quizzes, and efforts, I completed this course, but I cannot see any option to download or buy the certificate."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Protecting the World: Introducing Corrosion Science and Engineering with these activities:
Volunteer as a tutor or mentor for students in introductory chemistry or physics courses
Help reinforce your understanding of fundamental concepts while supporting other students. By explaining concepts to others, you strengthen your own knowledge and develop effective communication skills.
Browse courses on Chemistry
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to volunteer as a tutor or mentor in your school or community.
  • Prepare lesson plans and materials based on your understanding of the subject matter.
  • Provide guidance and support to students, answering their questions and explaining concepts.
Brush up on your technical writing skills
Enhance your ability to effectively communicate technical information by reviewing technical writing principles and practicing writing clear and concise reports.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Review guidelines and best practices for technical writing.
  • Write short reports or summaries on topics related to corrosion science.
  • Seek feedback on your writing from peers or instructors.
Read 'Introduction to Corrosion Science' by E. McCafferty
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of corrosion science, including the electrochemical mechanisms and factors that influence corrosion processes.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts.
  • Summarize each chapter in your own words.
Four other activities
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Follow tutorials on cathodic protection techniques
Deepen your understanding of cathodic protection methods, such as sacrificial anodes and impressed current systems, to effectively prevent corrosion in various applications.
Browse courses on Cathodic Protection
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on cathodic protection techniques.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, taking notes on the principles and applications.
Solve corrosion engineering practice problems
Test your understanding of corrosion engineering principles by solving practice problems involving corrosion rate calculations, material selection, and design considerations.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems in textbooks or online resources.
  • Solve the problems using the concepts learned in the course.
  • Check your solutions against provided answers or consult with instructors.
Develop a presentation on the economic impact of corrosion
Strengthen your understanding of the economic consequences of corrosion and improve your communication skills by creating a presentation that highlights the costs and implications of corrosion in various industries.
Show steps
  • Research the economic impact of corrosion in different sectors, such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and transportation.
  • Organize your findings into a logical flow.
  • Create visual aids, such as graphs, charts, and images.
  • Practice your presentation and deliver it to an audience.
Develop a project plan for a corrosion monitoring system in a specific industry
Apply the knowledge gained in the course to a practical project by creating a detailed plan for a corrosion monitoring system tailored to the specific challenges and requirements of a particular industry.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific industry or application where corrosion monitoring is critical.
  • Research different corrosion monitoring techniques and select the most appropriate ones.
  • Design a monitoring system that meets the specific requirements of the industry, considering factors such as accuracy, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Create a detailed project plan outlining the steps involved in implementing the monitoring system.

Career center

Learners who complete Protecting the World: Introducing Corrosion Science and Engineering will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Corrosion Engineer
The Corrosion Engineer is responsible for preventing and controlling corrosion in various industries, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and manufacturing. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of corrosion, cathodic protection, surface engineering, and oilfield corrosion control. The course materials, developed in collaboration with AkzoNobel, will help you understand the science behind corrosion and develop practical solutions to prevent and control it.
Corrosion Scientist
The Corrosion Scientist conducts research on the causes and prevention of corrosion. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of corrosion, cathodic protection, surface engineering, and oilfield corrosion control. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to conduct cutting-edge research on corrosion prevention and control.
Corrosion Consultant
The Corrosion Consultant provides advice on corrosion prevention and control to clients in a variety of industries. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles of corrosion, cathodic protection, surface engineering, and oilfield corrosion control. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to provide expert advice on corrosion prevention and control.
Materials Scientist
The Materials Scientist researches and develops new materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. This course provides a solid understanding of the properties of materials and how they are affected by corrosion. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and develop new materials that are resistant to corrosion.
Electrochemical Engineer
The Electrochemical Engineer designs and develops electrochemical systems, such as batteries, fuel cells, and sensors. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of electrochemistry and how they relate to corrosion. The course materials will help you understand the science behind electrochemical corrosion and develop strategies to prevent it.
Chemical Engineer
The Chemical Engineer designs and operates chemical plants and processes. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect chemical processes. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and operate chemical plants that are resistant to corrosion.
Mechanical Engineer
The Mechanical Engineer designs and builds machines and structures. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of machines and structures. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and build machines and structures that are resistant to corrosion.
Aerospace Engineer
The Aerospace Engineer designs and builds aircraft and spacecraft. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of aircraft and spacecraft. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and build aircraft and spacecraft that are resistant to corrosion.
Metallurgical Engineer
The Metallurgical Engineer designs and produces metals and metal alloys. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of metals and metal alloys. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and produce metals and metal alloys that are resistant to corrosion.
Mining Engineer
The Mining Engineer designs and operates mines. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of mines. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and operate mines that are resistant to corrosion.
Nuclear Engineer
The Nuclear Engineer designs and operates nuclear power plants. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of nuclear power plants. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and operate nuclear power plants that are resistant to corrosion.
Marine Engineer
The Marine Engineer designs and builds ships and other marine vessels. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of ships and other marine vessels. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and build ships and other marine vessels that are resistant to corrosion.
Civil Engineer
The Civil Engineer designs and builds infrastructure, such as bridges, buildings, and roads. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of infrastructure. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and build infrastructure that is resistant to corrosion.
Petroleum Engineer
The Petroleum Engineer designs and operates oil and gas wells. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the performance of oil and gas wells. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to design and operate oil and gas wells that are resistant to corrosion.
Environmental Engineer
The Environmental Engineer protects the environment from pollution. This course provides a basic understanding of the principles of corrosion and how they can affect the environment. The course materials will help you develop the skills needed to protect the environment from corrosion.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Protecting the World: Introducing Corrosion Science and Engineering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of corrosion engineering, covering the principles, design, and applications of corrosion control methods.
Provides a good introduction to the theory and practice of cathodic protection.
Provides a good introduction to the principles of corrosion.
Provides a good introduction to the principles and practices of corrosion and materials selection for oil and gas applications.

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