The Chemistry Behind

Rusting Bridges
Chemical Equation
4 Fe + 3 O₂ + 2 H₂ O → 2 Fe₂O₃ H₂O
Iron + Oxygen + Water → Iron (III) Oxide Hydate
+ + →

Rusting Process/Reaction
Rusting is a chemical reaction (specifically a
redox reaction) formed from a type of
corrosion called oxidation. Rust forms when
iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of
moisture and produces iron (III) oxide hydrate.
Rust appears as a reddish- or yellowish-
brown flaky coating on metals. Once rusting
begins, it can spread quickly and damage the
bridge or lead to its collapse.

Environmental Concerns
Since rusting is non-toxic, it does not
have any environmental concerns itself.
However, if a bridge collapses due to
rust, it may destroy the ecosystems
around it .

Health Concerns
Rusting bridges themselves do not cause any
serous health problems. Although rust itself
may leave behind stains on skin, they are
mostly harmless and can be removed easily.
However, if metal objects are left to rust in
natural environments for a while, they may
collect bacteria and cause tetanus if it pierces
the skin. Tetanus is a serious bacterial
infection that affects the nervous system and
causes muscles throughout the body to
tighten. A common way of getting tetanus is
by stepping on a rusty nail.

Safety Concerns
Rusting iron can be a huge safety
hazard as it is corrosive and in
structural applications like bridges, can
weaken the quality of the material and
increase the risk of collapse or failure.
This can lead to the death of hundreds
of people and destroy many other
infrastructures in the surrounding area