CORROSION OF METALS IN TROPICAL ENVIRONMENTS. FINAL REPORT OF 16-YEAR EXPOSURES

Abstract

Results of 16-year tests of metals in tropical sea water total and intermittent immersion and atmospheres are reported. Data are tabulated on carbon and low-alloy steels, alpha and beta brasses, bronzes, NiCu and CuNi, austenitic stainless steels, and commercially pure Al, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn, both as single metals and in many combinations of couples both in water and atmospheres. Data recorded include both weight loss and tensile strength as well as statistical summaries of pitting. While many of the data have been reported previously, this report gives first information on cast bronzes, and atmospheric exposures of weathering steel. Some anomalies are reported and bimetallic couple results are reported for the first time also. In addition to confirmation of results from other studies, some of the data contradict or modify conclusions reached earlier for the same materials, especially with respect to exposures elsewhere than in the tropics. This is the final report on the project.