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DEEP-OCEAN BIODETERIORATION OF MATERIALS-PART III.
Three Years at 5,300 Feet, This is Part III of a series of reports on the
biological deterioration of materials in the deep ocean. It covers the data
obtained after exposing 1,318 test specimens of 316 different materials for 35
months on the Pacific Ocean floor at a depth of 5,300 feet (Test Site 1). The
materials were attached to a Submersible Test Unit (STU). The STU was retrieved
in February 1965 and returned to the Laboratory for tests and analyses. Hydroid growths were found on all the test
specimens placed on the STU. A few species of tube worms were found attached to
metals, plastics, and coated test specimens. Most of the plastics and al I the
rope materials were covered with bacteria I slime growth. Cotton and Manila rope
specimens were severely deteriorated by bacterial action. Wood panels, plastics,
and Manila ropes were attacked by marine borers. Metals, natural and butyl
rubber, and certain plastic materials were not affected.
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