What happens to the seal that sacrifices against elements in sacrificial corrosion?

In the context of sacrificial corrosion, the seal or sacrificial anode is designed to corrode preferentially so that other metals in the structure are protected from corrosion. This means that over time, the sacrificial anode will deteriorate as it absorbs the corrosive elements like moisture and electrolytes, which would otherwise attack the more critical metal components of the structure. This process allows the surrounding metals to remain intact and functional, ultimately extending their lifespan.

The concept of sacrificial corrosion is fundamental in many applications, such as in marine environments where exposed metal parts are prone to corrosion from seawater. The sacrificial anode willingly gives up its material to corrode, which is why it is intentionally made of a more reactive metal that will 'sacrifice' itself for the protection of the other metal components, thereby ensuring the integrity of the structure as a whole.