MCI Project Summaries 2008 - Smithsonian Institution

MCI 6210 Saturn V Rockets
MCI Staff: Ray Barnett, Carol A. Grissom, Odile Madden
The three remaining Saturn V rockets were treated for display in recent years. This
investigation relied on reports generated by those who treated the rockets, curatorial files at
NASM, and MCI files. Information about these treatments and their history were collated, and
the methods and techniques used in the stabilization, restoration, and preservation were analyzed
and compared. In particular, the investigation focused on corrosion of the exotic aluminum and
other metal alloys; removal of flora and fauna infestations; preservation of rubber, plastic, Mylar,
and other organic materials used in the rockets' construction; and retention of original paint and
decal schemes. The information collated was the basis for treatment evaluation.
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