Chemical constituents of eroded gun surfaces

Abstract A study has been made on the distribution of chemical constituents on eroded surfaces of retired guns using the instrument, PHI Model 548 ESCA/Auger with a SAM attachment. Three eroded gun tubes in progressive stages of corrosion were examined by Scanning Auger Microprobe. The elemental constituents were first established from Auger spectra of various sampling spots using a wide primary electron beam, and then Auger images of selected elements were obtained from a beam width approximately 5 μm. The chemical elements present on the top surface layer depend largely on the propellants used in firings. The prominent features of the eroded surface were extensive oxidation and severe thermal cracking. The heterogeneous distribution and the accumulation of the major elements which participated in the surface erosion are imaged and illustrated.