Factors influencing atmospheric corrosion rates in abu dhabi

Samples of carbon steel were exposed to the atmosphere in Abu Dhabi and corrosion rates measured every month for one year. Various angles of repose from 0° to 45° were selected, as well as a comparison between north facing and south facing. The samples were heavily contaminated with airborne dust, even though they were 15 m above grade. The salt content of the dust was high ~2000 ppm) and is believe responsible for the high corrosion rates observed in a country where there less than 30 mmyr-1 of rain. Comparison between top and bottom surface was also made as well as an investigation of the chloride content of the dust. The study produced a protocol that can be rolled out to the whole of the UAE to produce a corrosion map of the UAE.