Multi-scale modeling of the corrosion of metals under atmospheric corrosion

A holistic model of the atmospheric corrosion of metals is being developed. The model is based on integrating modules that define such processes as marine aerosol production by oceans and breaking surf, transport of marine aerosols across landscapes, deposition of aerosols onto structures, cleaning of surfaces by wind and rain, and the wetting and drying of surfaces throughout surface temperature and relative humidity cycles. The integration of these modules into a software framework enables the user to extract accurate estimates of surface conditions for structures located at any geographical location in Australia. Current research is aimed at developing a more fundamental approach to estimating corrosion based on the response of a metal to its environment.