What is the term for the lifting or flaking of metal at the surface due to delamination caused by pressure from corrosion residual product buildup?

The term that describes the lifting or flaking of metal at the surface due to delamination caused by pressure from corrosion residual product buildup is exfoliation. In this context, exfoliation occurs when corrosion products build up beneath the surface of a metal, creating pressure that causes layers of the metal to separate and flake off. This phenomenon is especially relevant in materials subjected to significant environmental stress, where corrosion can lead to serious integrity issues.

Understanding exfoliation is critical for maintenance and inspection in aviation and other fields involving metals, as it can impact the performance and safety of structural components. It is important to differentiate exfoliation from other forms of corrosion such as spalling, where material breaks away in pieces, or corrosion pitting, which involves localized surface damage without layer separation. Exfoliation specifically refers to the layer delamination aspect, making it distinct in its implications for material integrity.