CORROSION ANALYSIS OF METALLIC COMPONENTS IN ETECSA TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE: ROLE OF COASTAL ATMOSPHERE IN CIEGO DE AVILA, CUBA

Abstract

The atmospheric corrosion of metals is a discontinuous electrochemical process that occurs when metal surfaces are exposed to moisture from weather phenomena such as rain, condensation, and fog. The presence of certain pollutants in the atmosphere significantly enhances the magnitude of atmospheric corrosion. In particular, studies conducted by various authors have demonstrated that metals exposed to coastal atmospheres experience accelerated corrosion compared to other types of atmospheres. NaCl, originating from the sea, has been identified as one of the most aggressive atmospheric pollutants that contributes to corrosion. The presence of circulating liquid media within structures, especially at medium temperatures and with different chemical compositions, further exacerbates the corrosive effects. Island territories such as the Caribbean are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon due to climate change, which has led to increased sea penetrations, stronger winds, and more frequent rainfall. This research aims to investigate the corrosion behavior of metals in the Caribbean region, focusing on the effects of coastal atmospheres and the presence of NaCl as a corrosive agent. The study will involve experimental measurements of corrosion rates, as well as the characterization of corrosion products formed on metal surfaces. Various metals with different chemical compositions will be exposed to simulated coastal atmospheres in a controlled laboratory environment. Corrosion tests will be conducted under different temperature and humidity conditions to simulate realistic environmental factors. The results will be analyzed to determine the corrosion kinetics, identify the predominant corrosion mechanisms, and assess the influence of NaCl on the corrosion process. This research is expected to provide valuable insights into the corrosion behavior of metals in coastal environments, particularly in island territories like the Caribbean. The findings will contribute to the development of effective corrosion prevention strategies and the selection of suitable materials for infrastructure exposed to such aggressive atmospheric conditions.