Zinc is a substance that offers a natural resistance to corrosion. According to the U.S. General Services Administration, metals that have been coated with a zinc membrane can last for over a century without showing signs of corrosion damage. In general, thicker coats of zinc offer increased protection against corrosion
Metals can undergo certain processes to gain galvanized properties. Hot-dip galvanizing involves immersing a metal into molten zinc resulting in a corrosion-resistant coating. Applying zinc paints can also give metals corrosion-resistant properties. Metal that has been placed in a vacuum featuring zinc particles and heated has been "sherardized" to become corrosion-resistant.
Corrosion only occurs in the presence of metal, moisture and oxygen. Oxygen diffuses into the water and electrons are exchanged, resulting in corrosion. Zinc membranes are not completely resistant to abrasion. Zinc layers on metals can be scratched off, making the metal prone to corrosion at the scratch point.