Prevention and cost of atmospheric corrosion in Mauritius

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to obtain a better insight into the impact of atmospheric corrosion in Mauritius by investigating the corrosion prevention strategies used in the country and determining the related costs. Design/methodology/approach Companies and organizations, in various industrial sectors, affected by atmospheric corrosion were selected. They were inspected and surveys were performed in order to fulfill the aim of the study. Findings It has been observed that extensive atmospheric corrosion problems have been encountered in the capital city, leading to the use of a range of corrosion prevention methods. However, carbon steel, which corrodes easily, is very commonly used in the country. This leads to the wide use of alkyd‐based barrier coatings. The cost of atmospheric corrosion has been found to be equal to 0.38 per cent of the GDP. Social implications This study is expected to raise concern on the problem of atmospheric corrosion in Mauritius and the related waste in materials. Originality/value This study is expected to help in adopting corrosion prevention policies and strategies in Mauritius.