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cathodic protection
A method of preventing oxidation (rusting) of exposed metal structures, such as bridges and pipelines, by imposing between the structure and the ground a small electrical voltage that opposes the flow of electrons and that is greater than the voltage present during oxidation. A common form of cathodic protection is known as impressed current. With this technique a current is impressed between the buried structure and an anode. This forces a reversal of the current, and causes the anode to be consumed rather than the pipe. See also sacrificial anode. Related category • BUILDING AND ARCHITECTURE Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Science Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |