What type of corrosion protection is typically used for steel USTs?

Cathodic protection systems are commonly used for steel underground storage tanks (USTs) to mitigate corrosion. This method involves the use of an electrochemical process where the steel itself becomes the cathode of an electrochemical cell. In practice, this is achieved by applying an external electrical current or using sacrificial anodes that corrode instead of the steel structure of the tank.

By providing this protective measure, cathodic protection helps to prevent the corrosion that typically occurs when steel is exposed to moisture and electrolytes in the soil or groundwater. This is crucial for prolonging the lifespan of the UST and ensuring environmental safety by minimizing leaks and product loss.

Other options, while they do have their own applications, do not directly address the specific need for corrosion protection in steel USTs to the same extent. Thermal insulation primarily adds a layer of heat retention but does not protect against corrosion. Galvanic protection can be a component of cathodic methods but is not commonly standalone for UST applications. Polymer liners could serve as a barrier to protect the interior surface, yet they do not address corrosion of the steel structure itself effectively as cathodic protection does.