Methodology Investigation. Moisture and Temperature Conditions in Storage Containers in Humid Environments.

摘要

A methodology investigation was initiated by the USATTC in the Canal Zone in February 1976 to provide a further understanding of the basic processes that lead to water damage of material in storage containers, and to enhance knowledge of thermal buildup on surfaces and in the air inside storage containers. The investigation revealed that moisture conditions inside storage containers were influenced significantly by the materials inside those containers. With increasing temperature, the materials were found to rapidly release moisture to the container air significantly changing the moisture content (absolute humidity) of the air and increasing the potential for water condensation when radiation cooling of the contents and walls of the container occurred. To reduce the occurrence of water damage in storage containers, the study recommends that the amount of water initially enclosed in a container by minimized by (1) pre-drying the goods to be stored, (2) pre-drying the materials (e.g., pallets and packaging material) associated with the storing of goods and (3) closing the container in dry ambient environment. Further study of the basics of moisture migration within storage containers is also recommended. (Author)