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May 1984

By: David Ruggieri & Anne Rowe

Abstract

A program was conducted at Kennedy Space Center to evaluate the performance of new, single package, zinc-rich coatings versus the two package types. By 1981 advances in paint technology has produced new coating systems which may (1) be easier to apply effectively and/or (2) provide better corrosion protection. Also, by 1981, an additional hazard had been introduced into the environment of KSC launch structures and ground support equipment: the products of the solid rocket booster exhaust which include small particles of alumina (AL2O3) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) absorbed on the surface of these particles. It is evident that acid-resistant topcoats are needed in potential exposure areas. For this application polyurethane formulations with an epoxy tie coat to the zinc primer was recommended. With that in mind, this report evaluates the application characteristics, repair techniques, and field performance of a variety of new single component inorganic zinc coatings, two-component inorganic zinc coatings, epoxy tie coat-polyurethane topcoat systems, alternative topcoat systems, and protective coating systems for stainless steel and aluminum at the 18 month point.

For additional information, a complete copy of this study is available as a NASA Technical Memorandum 103503.  Send requests for copies to corrosion@ksc.nasa.gov.

To download a full copy of this report in Adobe's pdf format for local printing, click 341-82e.pdf.  (1.5MB)

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