ScienceJuly 16, 2026
passivation
/ˌpæsɪˈveɪʃən/
Definition
A process of creating a thin, protective surface layer on a material to render it chemically inactive or resistant to corrosion and air exposure.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'passivus' (capable of suffering or receiving) combined with the suffix '-ation.' In chemistry, it refers to making a metal or surface 'passive' or inert to chemical reactions.
In the news
In this article, the catalyst forms a 'nitrogen passivation layer' when exposed to nitrogen gas, which acts as a protective shield to keep the material stable in air. This protective coating can be easily removed to restart the chemical reaction, solving a major issue with catalyst air sensitivity.
Ru/BaSiN2:O: an air-stable catalyst powered by floating electrons
Read the full article ↗EurekAlert!