Corrosion

When a wind turbine foundation corrodes, when pipelines leak or when medical devices degrade, corrosion is often the underlying cause. It affects all materials and systems – from infrastructure and industrial processes to energy systems, batteries and marine environments – and is estimated to cost Swedish society around 4 per cent of GDP each year. How materials degrade over time has a direct impact on safety, availability and resource efficiency, particularly in systems expected to operate for long periods and under demanding conditions.

The transition towards electrification, hydrogen and more circular material flows introduces new materials, new combinations and new operating environments. At the same time, existing infrastructure is expected to remain in service for longer. This increases the need for more systematic assessment of degradation, remaining service life and risk.

Corrosion is therefore not only about identifying damage, but about providing a sound basis for decision-making. Through testing, simulation, monitoring and material analysis, it is possible to compare material choices, understand how different environments affect degradation, and plan maintenance and investments more effectively. Informed material choices at the design and construction stage can significantly reduce the need for costly measures later on.