Plastic Film Coatings for Protection from Marine Fouling and Corrosion

摘要

Saran and polytetrafluoroethylene (TFE) films with a pressure-sensitive adhesive were applied over the surfaces of painted and unpainted carbon steel panels and unpainted stainless steel and K-Monel panels. These panels were submerged in the sea to determine if the plastic film coverings can be effectively used to (1) protect painted as well as unpainted metal specimens from fouling and corrosion; (2) remove marine growth that becomes attached to the plastic film simply by stripping off the covering; and (3) prolong the fouling-free and corrosion-free intervals so as to decrease the total effort required for reconditioning fouled or corroded surfaces. The saran- and TFE-covered panels were exposed in the sea for 5 and 8.5 months, respectively. When retrieved, the panels were completely covered with marine growth, including numerous large barnacles. Generally, the plastic films protected the test panels from fouling and corrosion. The marine growth could be removed rapidly by stripping off the protective plastic covering. Crevice corrosion will occur under the protective plastic film on susceptible metal panels, such as stainless steel (type 302), when a small amount of seawater enters through ruptures. (Author)