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Research into the Properties of Materials for Underwater Structures in the North Sea
Author(s) -
Kievits F. J.,
Slebos H.
Publication year - 1972
Publication title -
materials and corrosion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.487
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 1521-4176
pISSN - 0947-5117
DOI - 10.1002/maco.19720231202
Subject(s) - corrosion , seawater , crevice corrosion , metallurgy , materials science , underwater , bending , biofouling , welding , fouling , composite material , oceanography , geology , membrane , biology , genetics
Constructing under water has accelerated research into corrosion protection and antifouling properties of materials used below the seawater level. A special working party was founded in the Netherlands to study — theoretically and practically — the corrosion and fouling properties of materials and coatings. A special test rack was immersed at a depth of 50 m in the North Sea in 1969. Experience gained from these experiments gave rise to a joint investigation by 13 laboratories in the Netherlands; the programme involves ten test racks 50 and 100 m below sea level, in the tidal zone and in marine and land atmospheres. The materials studied were: steel with various paints and coatings; stainless steel, Cu, Al and Ti alloys; welded, brazed, nailed and glued stainless steel, Al and Ti alloys; synthetic fibers. The test methods included crevice corrosion and stress corrosion bending tests, electrochemical measurements and the regular control of the biological conditions. The results show the importance of testing in specific marine areas because the results are not readily applicable to conditions in other geographical regions.