Corrosion Laboratory (Wright-Patterson AFB)
We have experience in performing all manner of corrosion and coating system testing and evaluation. Our experience includes measuring corrosion resistance of alloys in maintenance chemicals, in the atmosphere, and in non-aqueous environments. Environmental resistance has been measured during outdoor exposures and in cyclic laboratory corrosion chambers, as well as in realistic environments such as simulated integral fuel tank solutions and artificial rainwater solutions.
Corrosion properties are routinely measured through immersion testing, alternated immersion testing, environmental chamber testing, hydrogen embrittlement testing, sandwich and crevice corrosion testing, exfoliation testing, and stress corrosion cracking. Individuals within the group have also characterized corrosion phenomena using DC polarization and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) techniques.
We have experience in corrosion rate measurements, studies of corrosion mechanisms, studies of the effect of corrosion on mechanical properties, failure analysis, consulting, and the evaluation of corrosion inhibitors. Our professionals and technicians are uniquely qualified to perform various tasks associated with the study of corrosion. Researchers with specific experience in standard corrosion testing, electrochemical testing, analytical chemistry, corrosion fatigue and stress corrosion cracking, localized corrosion, SEM and optical microscopy, and surface sciences (XPS, Auger, SIMS, etc.), are resident in the group. This breadth of expertise in conjunction with other UDRI groups allows for a multidisciplinary approach to the study of corrosion.
Corrosion Rate and Property Measurements
- Accelerated Corrosion Testing
- Immersion Testing
- Alternate Immersion Testing
- Environmental Chamber Testing
- Hydrogen Embrittlement
- Sandwich Corrosion
- Crevice Corrosion
- Exfoliation
- Localized Corrosion
- Pitting Corrosion
- Stress Corrosion Cracking
- Corrosion Fatigue
Analytical Testing
Corrosion Mechanisms and Test Method Development
- Materials Compatibility
- Materials Selection
- Inhibitors
- Coatings
- Deicers
- Cleaners
- Corrosion Prevention Compounds
Corrosion Failure Analysis
- Background Information
- Visual Examination (Digital Photography)
- Optical Microscopy
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
- Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS)
- Analytical Testing
- Profilometry
Evaluation Report Documentation
- Written and photographic documentation of results
- Conclusions
- Recommendations
Simulated fuel tank substrate corrosion testing.
Experimental setup showing electrochemical testing of an aircraft toilet cleaner and deodorant for the purpose of materials compatibility testing.
Preparation of corrosion product samples for ion analysis.
Corroded panel from repair of aircraft fuselage.
Laser profilometry of remnant surface morphology.