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Shipwrecks-restoration of artifacts

Why do the artifacts which have been submerged for long periods in sea water require extensive restoration? Is it because of the corrosion or some oxidation-reduction reactions that occur on the artifacts?

Lloyd M.
assignment - Sydney, NSW, Australia
2004

Corrosion IS an oxidation process. But there is also growth of sea life on the artifacts. To some extent a very low reverse current can slowly convert the corrosion products back to metal. It tends to work with copper based alloys, but not as well with iron because the corrosion products of iron are so loose and non-adherent that they may no longer be attached to the object.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2004

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