Empirical Review on the Effects of Temperature on Corrosion Behavior of Mild Steel in Simulated Nigerian Atmospheric Conditions

Abstract

Atmospheric corrosion poses a significant threat to mild steel infrastructure, particularly in tropical climates like Nigeria, where elevated temperatures, high humidity, and saline conditions prevail. This empirical review aims to examine the effects of temperature on the corrosion behavior of mild steel under simulated Nigerian atmospheric conditions, focusing on electrochemical kinetics, diffusion processes, and corrosion product stability. The methodology synthesizes findings from controlled laboratory simulations and field exposure studies conducted in Nigerian locations, including Kaduna, Calabar, and coastal regions. Results indicate that increasing temperature from 25 °C to 45 °C doubles corrosion current density, with activation energy estimated at 43 kJ mol⁻¹, while field studies report corrosion rates ranging from 0.007 to 0.092 mm yr⁻¹ (mean 0.0341 mm yr⁻¹). To address structural resilience, this paper presents critical insights into environmental engineering design, demonstrating how thermo-dynamic driving forces change material performance. These practical applications enable improved service-life prediction, informed selection of protective coatings, and optimized maintenance scheduling for steel structures in tropical environments. Additionally, this work clarifies the direct relationships between heat-induced evaporation patterns and localized electrolyte film properties, allowing structural engineers to enhance technical safety margins. Ultimately, this expanded analysis provides an indispensable baseline for multi-variable degradation models designed specifically for sub-Saharan Africa's unique and highly demanding climatic micro-environments.