Which substance is effective in preventing corrosion in elevated storage tanks?

Cathodic protection is an effective method for preventing corrosion in elevated storage tanks. This technique involves the utilization of either sacrificial anodes or impressed current to protect the metal surface by making it the cathode of an electrochemical cell. When cathodic protection is applied, it reduces the corrosion rate of the submerged and buried parts of the tank, thus prolonging its lifespan and maintaining the integrity of the water supply.

This method is especially vital for steel tanks, which are prone to rusting when exposed to moisture and oxygen. By applying cathodic protection, the electrochemical processes that lead to corrosion are effectively disrupted. As a result, the potential of the metal surface is altered, minimizing the likelihood of oxidation and corrosion damage.

Other methods, such as galvanizing, can also help prevent corrosion, but they typically involve coating the surface rather than altering the electrochemical environment. Sodium chloride and pesticides do not provide effective corrosion protection; in fact, sodium chloride can exacerbate corrosion, while pesticides are unrelated to corrosion prevention in tanks.