DEEP-OCEAN BIODETERIORATION OF MATERIALS. PART 2. SIX MONTHS AT 2,340 FEET
Abstract
This is Part II of a series of reports on the biological deterioration of materials in the deep ocean. It covers the data obtained after exposing 2,385 specimens of 603 different materials for 6 months (197 days) on the Pacific Ocean floor at a depth of 2,340 feet (Test Site II). The materials were attached to a Submersible Test Unit (STU). The STU was retrieved in December 1964 and returned to the Laboratory for test and analysis. There were marine fouling organisms attached to the plastic ropes, aluminum buoys, polyethylene-jacketed wire rope, nickel-plated shackles, and on some metal test specimens. Most of the plastic and all of the rope materials were covered with bacterial slime growth. Wood panels, plastics, and Manila rope were attacked by marine borers. Cotton and Manila rope specimens and jute-fiber burlap wrappings were severely deteriorated by bacterial action. Metal, glass, natural and butyl rubber, and some plastics with a smooth and extra hard surface were not affected. The biological effects on materials recovered from Test Site II are briefly compared with materials recovered from Test Site I.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0619014
Entities
People
- James S. Muraoka
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center