Microscopic investigation of interface corrosion of steel-aluminum explosively bonded material exposed to periodic sea water spray

An explosively bonded triclad consisting of 5456 aluminum, 1100 aluminum, and ASTM A516, Grade 55 steel is currently in use as a transition joint between steel hulls and aluminum superstructures on several military marine vehicles. This study examines some of the corrosion processes and product formations that take place when this joint is exposed to the marine atmosphere. Accelerated sea spray testing was performed in the laboratory to simulate in-service conditions with joint specimens receiving exposures of varying durations. A corrosion model is hypothesized and photomicrographs of the various exposed specimens are presented and discussed.http://archive.org/details/microscopicinves00keelLieutenant, United States NavyApproved for public release; distribution is unlimited