What is the greatest contributor to corrosion in avionic systems?

Moisture is indeed the greatest contributor to corrosion in avionic systems. Corrosion is an electrochemical process that requires the presence of an electrolyte; moisture acts as that essential electrolyte in most cases. When water or humidity is present, it facilitates the movement of ions, which accelerates the corrosion process.

In avionics, the environments in which systems operate often include high humidity, rain, and other forms of moisture. This exposure increases the likelihood of corrosion on metal components, particularly when combined with other factors such as varying temperatures or the presence of dirt and debris, which can hold moisture against surfaces.

Effective corrosion control measures in avionic systems often focus on managing moisture exposure, including the use of protective coatings, seals, and the design of systems to minimize water intrusion. While other factors like temperature fluctuations and dust accumulation can contribute to a degradation of materials or serve as catalysts in the corrosion process, moisture remains the primary factor driving corrosion in avionic environments.