Reduced Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Ammunition Coatings.
Abstract
Production requirements and film thickness limitations typically require that ammunition coating systems consist of a single film. For large-caliber ammunition, the coating is MIL-E-5289 1, Enamel, Lusterless, Zinc Phosphate, Styrenated Alkyd Type. This single film must provide the corrosion resistance of a primer plus such properties as color, gloss, and solvent resistance that are required of a topcoat, a compromise at best. In addition, the specification currently has a VOC content of about 600 g/l as applied, and it allows the use of lead chromate in three of the colors at up to 24% by weight of the pigment. Federal and local regulations resulting from the Clean Air Act and its amendments restrict the amount of VOC emitted during the application of protective coatings, and regulations on worker safety restrict exposure to hazardous materials such as chromates. These materials also generate hazardous wastes and the associated high disposal costs. This report summarizes progress in developing ammunition coatings that perform as well as or better than current systems, but at reduced VOC levels with chromate-free pigmentation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA309468
Entities
People
- Jeffrey L. Duncan
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory