Study for the National Defence

CPI Corrosion’s laboratory services were retained by the National Defence to complete an evaluation study related to the corrosion mechanisms of unexploded shells.  Within the scope of this study, the lifetime of different types of munitions used by the Canadian Forces before shell casing ruptures was also evaluated. This study was part of their training on the firing ranges of Canadian Forces bases in Canada.

The study included the evaluation of the corrosivity of the ground at firing ranges of various bases, including the one at Valcartier, as well as very specialized laboratory work. 

The ultimate goal of this study was to estimate the amount of time it takes for the metal casing of unexploded shells lying in the ground to rupture under the effects of the corrosion process.

Services Rendered 

• In situ resistivity surveys.
• Collection of soil and water samples.
• Laboratory analysis of the rate of soil aggressiveness and the rate of chloride.
• Initial characterization of the munitions.
• Evaluation of the electrochemical behaviour of munitions.
• Analysis of the results, conclusion and recommendations.