Diamond plate, also known as tread plate or checker plate, is a robust material easily recognizable by its raised, repeating pattern. This texture provides enhanced traction and is why the material is frequently used for industrial flooring, vehicle steps, and specialized storage boxes. Users rely on this material for its inherent strength and long-term performance. A primary concern for anyone utilizing this material outdoors or in humid conditions is its resistance to environmental weathering and degradation.
Material Composition Determines Corrosion
The direct answer to whether diamond plate rusts depends entirely on the metal used in its manufacture. Rust is the common term for iron oxide, resulting from iron reacting with oxygen and moisture. Therefore, any diamond plate fabricated from carbon steel contains iron and will undergo this specific corrosive process if left unprotected.
When steel diamond plate is exposed to the elements, the iron atoms in the alloy bond with oxygen atoms, forming the reddish-brown, flaky compound known as Fe2O3. This type of corrosion is destructive because the iron oxide is porous and does not adhere tightly to the surface. The loose, crumbly nature of rust exposes the underlying metal to continuous reaction with oxygen and water, allowing the degradation to progress deeper into the material.
In contrast, diamond plate made from aluminum alloys does not contain iron in its composition. Because the chemical element iron is absent, aluminum cannot form iron oxide and thus cannot technically rust. This fundamental difference in chemistry means that the two primary types of diamond plate behave very differently when subjected to moisture and air.
A third, less common option is stainless steel diamond plate, which is an alloy of iron, carbon, and at least 10.5% chromium. The addition of chromium drastically changes the corrosion profile by forming a thin, protective layer of chromium oxide on the surface. This barrier is highly resistant to degradation, making the stainless variety suitable for applications requiring maximum hygiene and resistance to harsh chemicals.
Aluminum Diamond Plate: Oxidation Versus Rust
Although aluminum diamond plate does not rust, it does readily undergo a process called oxidation. This chemical reaction occurs when the aluminum metal is exposed to atmospheric oxygen, resulting in the compound aluminum oxide, chemically represented as Al2O3.
This aluminum oxide layer is chemically and physically distinct from iron oxide. It forms an extremely thin, hard, and transparent film that adheres tightly to the surface of the underlying metal. This thin layer effectively seals the material off from the surrounding environment.
Once the aluminum oxide layer forms, it acts as a self-sealing barrier, preventing oxygen from reaching the pure aluminum beneath. The corrosion effectively stops itself because the resulting compound is non-porous and non-flaky. This stable layer is why aluminum diamond plate maintains its structural integrity and corrosion resistance over long periods without needing extensive maintenance or protective coatings.
The natural oxidation process in aluminum is therefore considered beneficial. While prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or saltwater can cause pitting or a white, powdery corrosion on aluminum, the initial oxide layer provides a robust defense against common atmospheric weathering.
Protecting Steel Diamond Plate from Corrosion
Since steel diamond plate is susceptible to rust, protective measures are necessary to ensure its long-term viability. The most common and effective method to prevent iron oxidation is the application of a sacrificial coating. Galvanization involves dipping the steel into molten zinc, which creates a durable zinc layer that corrodes instead of the steel beneath it.
Another popular factory-applied option is powder coating. This uses an electrostatically applied polymer resin that is then cured under heat. This process results in a thick, highly durable, and chip-resistant paint finish that forms a physical barrier against oxygen and moisture. These factory treatments are the best defense against the onset of rust.
For maintenance, regular cleaning is an important practice that significantly extends the lifespan of the material. Dirt, mud, and organic debris can trap moisture against the steel surface, creating pockets where corrosion can accelerate. Periodically washing the plate with mild soap and water removes these moisture-holding contaminants.
If surface rust appears, it must be addressed immediately to prevent it from spreading. The affected area should be mechanically cleaned, often through sanding or wire brushing, to completely remove the Fe2O3 layer. After the bare metal is exposed, a rust-inhibiting primer and a new protective topcoat should be applied to reseal the surface. This proactive maintenance is necessary to preserving the structural integrity of the steel plate.