Nickel Rusting: Types, Factors and Clean Rust Tips

When working with metals, you need to think about corrosion. A common question is whether nickel rusting is a problem. You might see iron rust over time, but does the same thing happen to nickel?

Let’s learn how nickel reacts to air, water, and other conditions.

What is Nickel?

Nickel is a strong, silver-colored metal used in many industries. It is found in stainless steel, coins, batteries, and coatings.

Nickel is popular because it’s tough, resists corrosion, and lasts a long time. Many industries use nickel to protect other metals from rust and wear.

Does Nickel Rust?

No, nickel does not rust like iron. Rust happens when iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide. Since nickel does not contain iron, it cannot develop rust.

However, nickel can corrode in certain conditions. In a humid or acidic environment, it may form a dull or greenish layer on the surface. This is not the same as rust, but it can still affect how the metal looks and performs.

Types of Nickel Corrosion

Here are the three main types of nickel corrosion you should know about:

Pitting Corrosion​

Pitting corrosion happens when small holes or pits form on the surface of the nickel. This usually occurs in environments with chlorides, such as seawater or industrial chemicals.

These tiny pits can grow deeper and lead to structural weakness. Using protective coatings or nickel alloys with higher corrosion resistance can help prevent pittings.

Crevice Corrosion​

Crevice corrosion occurs in tight spaces where moisture and chemicals get trapped, such as under gaskets, bolts, or joints.

Since these areas have limited oxygen, a corrosive reaction starts, causing localized damage– proper design and sealing of joints can reduce the risk of crevice corrosion.

Stress Corrosion Cracking​

Stress corrosion cracking happens when nickel is exposed to both stress and a corrosive environment at the same time. This can cause cracks to form and spread and lead to sudden failure.

Industries that use nickel in high-pressure or high-temperature applications, like aerospace and chemical processing, must carefully select nickel alloys that resist SCC.

Factors Making Nickel Rust Resistant

So why doesn’t nickel rust easily? Here are five reasons:

1.Mixing with other metals

Nickel is often mixed with metals like chromium and molybdenum to make it even stronger against rust. When these metals combine, they form a protective layer that blocks moisture and oxygen– two things that cause rust.

This is why nickel alloys, like stainless steel, last so long without corroding.

2. Smooth Surface

A rough surface can trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to corrosion. But nickel has a smooth and polished surface that makes it harder for rust to form.

If you’re working with nickel, a good surface finish will help it stay rust-free even longer.

3. Own protective coating

Nickel has a natural ability to protect itself from rust. When it’s exposed to air, it forms a thin oxide layer that stops further corrosion.

This process is called passivation, and it helps nickel last for years, even in tough conditions.

4. Not very reactive

Rust happens when a metal reacts with oxygen and water. Nickel does not react easily with them, so it doesn’t break down easily as other metals, like iron.

This is the reason why nickel is perfect for environments with high humidity or frequent exposure to water.

5. Chemically stable

Some metals rust quickly when they come into contact with acids or other chemicals. But nickel stays strong around harsh chemicals– it doesn’t react easily with most substances.

That’s why it’s used in chemical plants, marine equipment, and even medical tools.

Comparing Nickel Rusting and Nickel Corrosion

Rusting and corrosion are often confused, but they are not the same. Rusting is a process that happens to iron and steel when they react with oxygen and water, forming iron oxide (rust).

Nickel, on the other hand, does not rust. Instead, it forms a thin oxide layer that protects it from further damage.

However, nickel can still corrode if exposed to moisture and certain acids. This means that while nickel is much more resistant to damage than iron, it is not completely immune to corrosion.

Oxidized Nickel vs Nickel Rusting

When nickel is exposed to oxygen, it forms a nickel oxide layer on its surface.

This layer acts as a natural barrier, preventing further oxidation and protecting the metal underneath. This process is called passivation, and it helps nickel resist corrosion over time.

Rusting, on the other hand, refers to the oxidation of iron. When iron rusts, the iron oxide flakes away, exposing fresh metal to further damage. This process continues until the material weakens and deteriorates.

Nickel does not rust like this– instead, its oxide layer stays in place and prevents further corrosion.

Best Tips to Clean Rust from Nickel

Even though nickel does not rust, it can still develop corrosion stains, especially if exposed to harsh environments.

To keep nickel surfaces clean and in good condition, here are the best ways to remove rust-like stains:

• The safest and most effective way to clean nickel without damaging the surface is using a non-abrasive metal polish.
• For light cleaning, soap and warm water can remove dirt and minor stains.
• Use lemon juice and salt. This natural method can help break down corrosion and restore the shine to nickel surfaces.
• Make a paste with baking soda and a small amount of vinegar, apply it to the affected area, and gently scrub with a soft cloth.
• If the corrosion is severe, a commercial rust remover designed for metals can help, but always follow the instructions carefully.

Common Uses of Nickel in Corrosion-Resistant Applications

Let’s explore some of the common uses of nickel in corrosion-resistant applications:

Marine

The marine industry deals with some of the most challenging conditions, with saltwater, humidity, and high temperatures constantly testing materials.

Because of nickel’s corrosion resistance, it’s often used in marine equipment such as propellers, pumps, and ship hulls. Its ability to withstand rust and corrosion from saltwater extend the lifespan of components.

By combining nickel with other metals, marine equipment can last longer– reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

Electronics

Nickel has excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance that’s why it’s one of the most important materials in the electronic industry.

Nickel is commonly used in batteries, electroplating, and electrical contacts. It helps improve the performance and reliability of electrical devices by ensuring that components remain functional even in challenging environments.

Chemical

In the chemical processing industry, nickel is used for equipment that must withstand harsh chemicals, acids, and extreme temperatures.

It’s found in chemical processing equipment like reactors, tanks, and pipes. Its resistance to corrosion keeps these systems running safely and efficiently.

Nickel is also used in catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without breaking down.

Aerospace

The aerospace industry relies on materials that can endure extreme temperatures, pressure, and corrosive conditions.

Nickel and its alloys are used in jet engines and gas turbines to ensure that the components can handle the stresses of flight without degrading over time.

The high strength and corrosion resistance of nickel make it ideal for critical components in these environments, ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft.

Conclusion

In short, nickel does not rust like iron, but it can corrode in certain conditions. Its protective oxide layer and smooth finish make it highly resistant to damage.

For high-quality nickel products that stand up to tough environments, DEK is your go-to manufacturing partner. Reach out to us for reliable, durable solutions.

FAQs

Does nickel rust in water?

No, nickel doesn’t rust in water  due to its natural protective oxide layer that prevents rust from forming.

How fast does nickel rust?

Nickel doesn’t rust, but it can corrode in high-chloride or chemical environments.

Does nickel finish rust?

No, nickel finishes don’t rust, but they can corrode over time if exposed to harsh conditions.

Does nickel tarnish?

Yes, nickel can tarnish, especially with oxidation and moisture, but it’s not the same as rust.

Does brushed nickel rust?

No, brushed nickel doesn’t rust, but it can corrode if damaged or exposed to moisture.

Does nickel-plated steel rust?

Yes, if nickel plating is damaged, the steel underneath can rust.

Does satin nickel rust?

No, satin nickel doesn’t rust but can corrode if exposed to moisture.

Does black nickel rust?

No, black nickel does not rust. It is a nickel coating with a black finish that may tarnish or wear off over time.