The corrosion resistance of a stainless steel is dependent on the presence of an ultra-thin protective oxide film ( passive film ) on its surface .
It is possible under certain conditions for this oxide film to break down , for example in halide solutions or reducing acids .
The corrosion resistance of a stainless steel is dependent on the presence of an ultra-thin protective oxide film ( passive film ) on its surface , but it is possible under certain conditions for this oxide film to break down , for example in halide solutions or reducing acids .