Exfoliation corrosion is a form of which type of corrosion?

Exfoliation corrosion specifically occurs along grain boundaries in metallic materials, particularly in aluminum alloys. This type of corrosion is a variant of intergranular corrosion and is characterized by the separation or "exfoliation" of the metal structure, creating layers or flakes. This type of damage can be especially detrimental in aircraft structures, as it can lead to significant material loss and structural integrity issues.

The correct classification of exfoliation corrosion as intergranular highlights the importance of understanding how chemical and environmental factors can lead to corrosion at the microscopic level, where the structure of the metal is compromised between its grains. Recognizing exfoliation corrosion as a type of intergranular corrosion underscores the need for careful material selection, treatment processes, and protective strategies to mitigate such corrosion types in applications like aviation, where safety and reliability are paramount.