What is a common effect of corrosion on nonmetals?

Physical swelling is a common effect of corrosion on nonmetals, particularly in materials like rubber, plastics, and composites. When these materials are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or environmental conditions that facilitate corrosion, they can absorb water or other substances, leading to an increase in volume. This swelling can compromise the structural integrity and performance of nonmetal components, as it may cause deformation or other failures that affect their functionality.

Color change can occur in some nonmetals, but it is not universally observable and may not indicate corrosion specifically. Hardening can occur in some materials as part of a long-term aging process but is not a direct reaction associated with corrosion. Increased weight is also not a typical result of corrosion for nonmetals; rather, it might reflect physical changes due to the absorption of substances, but this is not synonymous with corrosion itself. Hence, physical swelling distinctly characterizes the effect of corrosion on nonmetals.