An Overview of Corrosion Behavior and Surface Treatments of Metals: Applications in Medical Implants and Boiler Systems

The relentless degradation of metallic materials due to corrosion poses significant challenges across diverse engineering applications, ranging from the intricate environment of the human body to the harsh operating conditions within industrial systems. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of corrosion mechanisms affecting metals, highlighting the critical need for effective surface treatments to enhance their longevity and performance. While a primary focus is placed on the corrosion behavior of metallic biomaterials and the surface modifications employed to improve their biocompatibility and resistance to physiological environments, this review also extends to explore the corrosion challenges encountered in boiler systems. Specifically, it examines the application of thermal spray coatings as a prominent surface treatment strategy for mitigating corrosion in boiler steel exposed to high temperatures and aggressive chemical environments. By drawing parallels between the demands for corrosion resistance in medical implants and boiler components, this paper aims to provide a broader understanding of the principles governing material degradation and the versatility of surface engineering techniques in combating corrosion across seemingly disparate fields. The insights presented underscore the importance of tailored surface treatments in ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of metallic components in critical applications.