DEEP-OCEAN BIODETERIORATION OF MATERIALS - PART II. SIX MONTHS AT 

 2,340 FEET 



Y-ROl 1-01-01-042 



Type C 



by 



James S. Muraoka 



ABSTRACT 



This is Part II of a series of reports on the biological deterioration of materials 

 in the deep ocean. It covers the data obtained after exposing 2,385 specimens of 

 603 different materials for 6 months (197 days) on the Pacific Ocean floor at a depth 

 of 2,340 feet (Test Site II). The materials were attached to a Submersible Test Unit 

 (STU). The STU was retrieved in December 1964 and returned to the Laboratory for 

 test and analysis. 



There were marine fouling organisms attached to the plastic ropes, aluminum 

 buoys, polyethylene-jacketed wire rope, nickel-plated shackles, and on some metal 

 test specimens. Most of the plastic and all of the rope materials were covered with 

 bacterial slime growth. Wood panels, plastics, and Manila rope were attacked by 

 marine borers. Cotton and Manila rope specimens and jute-fiber burlap wrappings 

 were severely deteriorated by bacterial action. Metal, glass, natural and butyl 

 rubber, and some plastics with a smooth and extra hard surface were not affected. 



The biological effects on materials recovered from Test Site II are briefly 

 compared with materials recovered from Test Site I. 



Copies available at CFSTI $3.00 



Qualified requesters may obtain copies of this report from DDC. 



Release to the Clearinghouse is authorized. 



The Laboratory invites comment on this report, particularly on the 



results obtained by those who have applied the information. 



