Corrosion SA aims to impart knowledge on the impact of process to learners and students around Midrand
CorriSA's executive director Petra Mitchell said the awareness day places a significant emphasis on the importance of corrosion education.
The Southern African Corrosion Institute will hold World Corrosion Awareness Day on April 24 in Glen Austin, Midrand.
The aim is to educate the general public about the direct and indirect implications of this oxidation process on the environment, safety and economy.
This year’s focus is celebrating 60 years of Corrosion Control and they will be having interactive demonstrations.
Executive Director of CorrISA, Petra Mitchell says the direct cost of corrosion is estimated to be around R130-billion and costs the country about 4% of its GDP.
“Indirect costs are at least three times the equivalent to the direct costs. However, several independent studies have shown that 25% of the above-mentioned effects and costs of corrosion can be prevented by applying known technology,” said Mitchell.
She said, based on the research, one ton of steel could turn to rust every 90 seconds and 50% of every ton of steel is used to replace corroded steel.
Mitchell said, therefore, this places a significant emphasis on the importance of corrosion education.
“When it comes to the science of corrosion, research and the study of corrosion mitigation in general. There is not enough done at schools and universities to make people aware of corrosion, including its study and impact. Our main objective is to spread awareness about the importance of Corrosion Prevention and Control considering that the economic impact of corrosion on South Africa’s GDP. That means the direct cost of corrosion to each of us is around R250 per month.”
The institute plays a major role in promoting and controlling the impact of corrosion on asset lifecycles, productivity and human life.
Mitchell said at universities, one finds that a single module dealing with corrosion is part of a programme such as metallurgy or material science. While at the postgraduate level, it is dealt with if a student selects to do a research project that is concerned with corrosion.
Education is key and they were planning to involve as many of the local schools and tertiary institutions as possible.
She concluded that there was a massive health and safety risk, financial implications and environmental impact if we do not take care of our respective assets.
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/304138/corrosion-can-be-avoided/
