What is one of the most effective methods to prevent external corrosion on structural steel?

Hot-dip galvanizing is one of the most effective methods to prevent external corrosion on structural steel due to its unique protective attributes. This process involves immersing steel in molten zinc, which forms a robust and adherent coating that provides both a physical barrier and a galvanic protection. The zinc coating is much thicker than typical painting systems and possesses a sacrificial nature; it will corrode preferentially to the underlying steel. This means that even if the coating is scratched or damaged, the exposed steel remains protected for an extended period because the zinc will corrode before the steel does.

Moreover, hot-dip galvanizing provides long-lasting protection, often exceeding 50 years under normal industrial conditions, significantly reducing maintenance and replacement costs over time. It also offers superior performance in harsh environments where moisture and salts may cause rapid corrosion.

Other methods, such as painting or applying protective coatings, can also reduce corrosion but may require more frequent maintenance, as these coatings can degrade over time due to weather, UV exposure, and mechanical wear. Stainless steel provides inherent corrosion resistance but at a higher material cost and may not always be practical for all applications compared to galvanized steel. Therefore, hot-dip galvanizing stands out as a highly effective means of preventing external corrosion on structural