Which situation is likely to experience permeation issues?

Permeation issues are primarily associated with materials and environments where hazardous substances can diffuse through protective barriers or coatings. In the scenario of sour crude storage tanks, the presence of sulfur compounds and other aggressive chemicals in sour crude oil can lead to significant interaction with storage materials. These compounds can slowly penetrate through coatings or linings designed to protect the tanks, potentially leading to corrosion, degradation of the coatings, and ultimately compromising the integrity of the tanks.

Sour crude is particularly problematic due to its corrosive properties and the potential for creating environmental hazards if leaks occur, making proper coating selection and inspection critical in this context. The other options, such as warehouse storage, retail spaces, and office buildings, typically involve less aggressive chemicals or conditions, which are less likely to cause permeation issues compared to the harsh environment experienced with sour crude storage tanks.