COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SURFACE PREPARATION TECHNIQUES IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY FOR CORROSION PROTECTION

Abstract

This study highlights the importance of abrasive blasting in the maritime
industry for the durability and safety of marine structures. Abrasive blasting is
employed to clean and prepare metal surfaces by removing rust, impurities, and old
coatings, facilitating optimal adhesion of anti-corrosive coatings that protect
against saline corrosion. Eco-friendly abrasives, such as garnet, represent a
sustainable choice, reducing health risks for workers and preventing soil and water
contamination. Additionally, classical abrasive blasting is compared with the use of
rotary abrasive discs, which allow for more precise cleaning control while
minimizing dust and noise.
The analytical methods employed to evaluate the efficiency of the surface
preparation process include adhesion testing, roughness measurement, contact
angle measurement, and optical microscopy. These techniques enable a detailed
assessment of the characteristics of treated surfaces.