Over the last decade or so, there has been immense progress in the development of tools, both experimental and theoretical, for probing the solid/fluid interface at the nanoscale. These advances open the way towards mechanistic understanding, and potentially prediction, of chemical processes occurring at this interface. Amongst the fields beginning to benefit from such effort is corrosion science, which is primarily concerned with degradation of metallic materials immersed in either liquid or gaseous environments. Thia Faraday Discussion focuses on the nanoscale interfacial chemical processes relevant to corrosion and its control. Corrosion science is becoming increasingly important as we move towards a world where every atom counts, e.g. in maintaining the performance of nano-devices, as well for ensuring sustainability through optimum use of natural resources.