This latest instalment in our series of FAQ blogs is tackling the issue of corrosion on aluminium. We all know that steel is prone to rust. As iron corrodes it expands and oxidises, causing the red flakes we all recognise as rust on the surface. As these flakes come away from the surface of the steel, more of the material is exposed to further corrosion and the damage continues.
Aluminium does not rust, but contrary to popular belief it is prone to corrosion. The corrosion of steel leads to iron oxide (rust), and the corrosion of aluminium leads to aluminium oxide being found on the surface of the metal. This deposit is a dull, powdery white material which is very hard and actually protects the surface of the aluminium from further corrosion. This is very different from iron oxide, which causes a greater and greater degree of damage to steel, though it dulls the finish of aluminium.
To restore the shine of aluminium and protect against future corrosion, it is recommended that the aluminium oxide is cleaned off. This cannot simply be done with water, but an effective preparation material will remove the dull material and help protect the surface of the aluminium from future corrosion. This product is safe for use on non-ferrous and ferrous metals, and is therefore a fantastic all-round preparation treatment for a huge variety of uses.
