The Corrosion Technology Laboratory at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) has evolved from the need to better understand the corrosion processes affecting the KSC launch sites. Over the years, numerous material failures at KSC have been attributed to various forms of corrosion (e.g., atmospheric corrosion, stress corrosion cracking, pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, intergranular corrosion, hydrogen embrittlement, corrosion fatigue, etc.).

To address these issues, basic and applied research is performed at the KSC Beachside Atmospheric Exposure Site to identify technologies that will prevent such failures. Current research projects underway at the site include environmentally compliant coating system research, seawater immersion of metallic alloys and coatings, reinforced concrete protection research, and research via the NASA-KSC/Naval Research Laboratory Interagency Agreement on Advanced Corrosion Technology.

The Corrosion Technology Laboratory is part of the Kennedy Space Center’s Applied Technology Division. Any project involving corrosion may utilize this fully staffed engineering, research, and testing facility.

Work on Corrosion page >>