Improvement of the Reference Cell for Impressed Current Cathodic Protection

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) system is the standard method utilized by the Navy for the corrosion protection of fleet ship hulls in seawater. Long term performance of existing and next generation digital controlled ICCP systems requires a high level of performance from the reference cells. Currently, there is non-optimal operation of the ICCP system due to poor performance of the reference cells. Lynntech proposes the development of reliable, stable advanced reference cells (ARC) by incorporating (i) macro-/micro-structures of the reference material; (ii) simple, cost-effective, non-toxic natural polymeric protective coating; and (iii) self diagnosis tool into digital controlled ICCP system. During the Phase I project, prototype reference cells will be developed and tested, including long term performance evaluation in a laboratory environment simulating Navy operational needs. We will also demonstrate the manufacturability and installation parameters which will lead to consistent, repeatable measurements under realistic conditions. During the Phase II project, ARC prototypes will be designed, fabricated, and tested, and delivered to the Navy. The developed ARC can be applied to a broad range of military and civilian maritime and infrastructure applications where ICCP systems are relied upon for corrosion protection.