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NASA's Corrosion Technology Laboratory at the Kennedy Space Center: Anticipating, Managing, and Preventing CorrosionCorrosion is the degradation of a material that results from its interaction with the environment. The marine environment at NASAs Kennedy Space Center (KSC) has been documented by ASM International (formerly American Society for Metals) as the most corrosive in the United States. With the introduction of the Space Shuttle in 1981, the already highly corrosive conditions at the launch pads were rendered even more severe by the 70 tons of highly corrosive hydrochloric acid that were generated by the solid rocket boosters. Numerous failures at the launch pads are caused by corrosion.The structural integrity of ground infrastructure and flight hardware is critical to the success, safety, cost, and sustainability of space missions. As a result of fifty years of experience with launch and ground operations in a natural marine environment that is highly corrosive, NASAs Corrosion Technology Laboratory at KSC is a major source of corrosion control expertise in the launch and other environments. Throughout its history, the Laboratory has evolved from what started as an atmospheric exposure facility near NASAs launch pads into a world-wide recognized capability that provides technical innovations and engineering services in all areas of corrosion for NASA and external customers.This presentation will provide a historical overview of the role of NASAs Corrosion Technology in anticipating, managing, and preventing corrosion. One important challenge in managing and preventing corrosion involves the detrimental impact on humans and the environment of what have been very effective corrosion control strategies. This challenge has motivated the development of new corrosion control technologies that are more effective and environmentally friendly. Strategies for improved corrosion protection and durability can have a huge impact on the economic sustainability of human spaceflight operations.
Document ID
20140017113
Acquisition Source
Kennedy Space Center
Document Type
Presentation
Authors
Calle, Luz Marina
(NASA Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL United States)
Date Acquired
December 8, 2014
Publication Date
October 21, 2014
Subject Category
Chemistry And Materials (General)
Report/Patent Number
KSC-E-DAA-TN18212
Meeting Information
Meeting: 2014 International Workshop on Environment and Alternative Energy
Location: Kennedy Space Center, FL
Country: United States
Start Date: October 21, 2014
End Date: October 24, 2014
Sponsors: NASA Kennedy Space Center
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 432938.11.01.06.28.91
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
Keywords
Corrosion
Environmental
Corrosion Protection
Environmentally Friendly
Coatings
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