DETERMINATION OF OPTIMUM TROPIC STORAGE AND EXPOSURE SITES, PHASE II: PATTERNS AND PREDICTIONS OF TROPIC MATERIALS DETERIORATION

摘要

A methodology investigation was made to determine time-decay curves describing the tropic material deterioration process and to develop a model for predicting deterioration from meteorological variables. The active portion of the project lasted from 1970-1973; and was performed in 16 sites that included coastal, forest, inland open, and shed exposure modes. Materials included steel, cotton, latex, butyl, polyvinyl chloride, and nylon. Samples were removed periodically and subjected to tensile tests. Meteorological measurements were also collected during exposure. Time decay curves with seasonably good fits were found in some cases but no generalized mathematical function was found applicable to all materials and all sites. In general, the linear model was superior, followed by double exponential and exponential. Recommendations included the adoption of experimental rather than correlational models in future studies; type of equations to use for specific material-mode combinations, and better definitions and measures of the tropic microenvironment.