What occurs when spilled mercury comes into contact with aluminum?

When spilled mercury comes into contact with aluminum, the interaction leads to accelerated corrosion of the aluminum. This phenomenon is known as "mercury embrittlement." Mercury can cause aluminum to disintegrate, which may result in the metal's mechanical properties being compromised rapidly. This corrosion is particularly difficult to manage because it can happen quickly and may not be readily visible until significant damage has occurred.

The specific mechanism involves mercury penetrating the aluminum grain structure, disrupting the bonds between aluminum atoms, leading to a loss of structural integrity. This makes aluminum components particularly vulnerable in environments where mercury is present. Understanding this reaction is crucial for safe handling and maintenance of aluminum structures in contexts where mercury might be introduced, such as in laboratories or industrial settings.