As industries enter the era of Industry 4.0, the integration of cutting-edge technologies has brought forth transformative changes across various sectors.

Cathodic protection (CP) has long been recognized as an efficient method to combat corrosion in metal structures, ensuring their longevity and safety. However, the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies introduces new challenges to the conventional CP management, with the emerging need to embrace digitalization and automation to optimize corrosion management.

With the proliferation of interconnected devices, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence, conventional cathodic protection approaches must be reevaluated. This paper explores the opportunities and implications of adopting IoT-based remote monitoring, predictive analytics, optimized system control up to autonomous systems in the realm of cathodic protection.

Through a comprehensive review of case studies and industry trends, we elucidate how embracing Industry 4.0 principles can enhance corrosion management efficiency, minimize operational costs, and extend the service life of critical assets. By amalgamating corrosion expertise with digital innovation, cathodic protection in a 4.0 world can pave the way for more sustainable and resilient infrastructures.