Corrosion can cause ESD protection to degrade in performance in as little as how many months?

Corrosion is a significant factor that can adversely affect the performance of ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) protection systems. When metal components are exposed to environmental factors such as moisture and contaminants, they can begin to corrode. This corrosion can create resistance and impede the intended function of ESD protection devices, leading to an increase in failure rates and potentially damaging sensitive electronic equipment.

Research has shown that corrosion can initiate and progress quickly under certain conditions, especially in environments that promote oxidation and electrochemical reactions. In particular, as little as three months can be enough time for corrosion processes to impact the integrity and effectiveness of ESD protective measures. After this period, the performance degradation might become noticeable, compromising the safety and reliability of avionics systems.

Understanding this timeframe is essential for those involved in avionics maintenance and inspection, ensuring that preventive measures are taken in a timely manner to mitigate the risks associated with corrosion and maintain ESD protection efficacy.