LONG-TERM STABILITY OF PROTECTIVE COATINGS ON LEAD AND LEAD-TIN ALLOY UNDER STORAGE CONDITIONS

Protection of the lead and lead-tin alloys stored in museum and archive depositories under adverse conditions (environment polluted by organic compound, mainly acetic acid) is based on the use of protective coatings (corrosion inhibitors, waxes and varnishes). The aim of this work was to test long-term stability and inhibition efficiency of mainly used protective coatings and final visual appearance of treated lead and lead-tin alloy surface. The monitored parameters were weight gain, color change and change of hydrophobic properties on samples of lead and lead-tin alloys after 2 years in a room environment and after 4 months in an atmosphere polluted with acetic acid.