Degradation Mechanisms of Military Coating Systems
Abstract
This work describes the development and application of specialized characterization techniques used to study the environmental degradation mechanisms of organic coating systems employed by the United States Department of Defense (DOD). Traditional methods for studying automotive and architectural coatings cannot easily probe the structural and chemical changes associated with the unique formulations used by DOD. Modified methods were developed to permit the use of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Additionally a new method to expose coating materials through their thickness based on ultra-fast laser ablation is introduced. Four discrete coating systems subjected to established weathering protocols were studied to identify and quantify degradation mechanisms. Complementary degradation mechanisms that occur in these multi-component coating systems have been determined for the first time. The results will guide the development of more durable military coatings systems and significantly augment traditional performance assessments of coatings durability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA433190
Entities
People
- C. R. Clayton
- G. P. Halada
- L. T. Keene
- S. H. Mcknight
- W. E. Kosik
Organizations
- Stony Brook University