TEST OF ZINC INORGANIC COATINGS ON WORK AREAS OF A FLOATING DRYDOCK-RESULTS OF 25TH-MONTH INSPECTION

摘要

Coal tar coatings used to protect the work areas of U. S. Navy floating drydocks do not satisfactorily resist the effects of chemical agents (e.g., seawater, solvents, fuels and oils) and physical agents (e.g., sandblasting, acetylene cutting and welding, and dragging of equipment) during the overhaul of ships and barges. Because zinc inorganic silicate coatings are more durable and abrasion resistant than bitumastic, asphaltic, or rubberized coatings, 14 of these coatings and one zinc-rich epoxy coating were applied to 42 deck sections and other work areas of the floating drydock USS ARD-12 for a 2-year, in-service field test. After 2 years exposure under conditions of continuous ship repair routine, the postcured coatings, as a class, were obviously superior to the selfcured coatings and to coal tar coatings. The zinc-rich epoxy coating also showed excellent performance. (Author)