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Abstract

This paper re-examines the reasons for the continuing high cost of corrosion failures and suggests that they are largely attributable to the influence of people on engineering systems. The paper also discusses the differences between corrosion control and corrosion management, the former being concerned with the interaction of materials and environments while the latter includes the additional effects of people. This systems engineering approach not only provides a clearer explanation of corrosion failures in engineering, but suggests a strategy for improved systems performance and cost effective engineering in the future. The way ahead, through the use of machine based intelligence, should help to make decisions more reliable and reduce the recurrent negative impact humans often have on systems, either due to negligence or more commonly to ignorance. The possibilities for the development and application of such computer systems are discussed.

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Expert overview Corrosion management in the twenty-first century

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