Which property is essential for fuel tank materials to ensure durability in marine environments?

Fuel tank materials must possess corrosion resistance to ensure durability in marine environments. Marine conditions are often harsh, with exposure to saltwater, humidity, and other corrosive elements that can lead to degradation of the material over time. If a fuel tank is made from materials that are not resistant to corrosion, it can lead to leaks, fuel contamination, and ultimately failure of the tank, posing serious safety and environmental hazards.

While being lightweight can be beneficial for improving fuel efficiency and reducing overall vessel weight, it does not directly impact the durability of the fuel tank in corrosive environments. High strength is also important for structural integrity, but without corrosion resistance, a strong material can still fail if it deteriorates from exposure to the marine environment. Non-flammable properties are critical for safety but do not contribute to the longevity of the material itself under corrosive conditions. Thus, corrosion resistance is the key property that ensures a fuel tank remains functional and safe over time in marine applications.