In corrosion terms, what does oxidation refer to?

Oxidation refers to a chemical process in which a substance combines with oxygen, leading to a change in its state or composition. This process is fundamental to understanding corrosion, as many corrosive reactions involve the oxidation of metals when they react with oxygen in the presence of moisture or other environments. In corrosion contexts, it often refers to the loss of electrons by a metal, resulting in the formation of oxides. This concept is critical for inspectors, as monitoring oxidation is a key part of assessing the corrosion of coatings and substrates. Understanding the foundational chemical process of oxidation helps inspectors evaluate the integrity of coatings and predict the potential for corrosion-related failures.