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A comprehensive long-term test on bare, anodized, plated, and organic-coated aluminum bumper stock is underway at atmospheric test sites at Pompano Beach, Florida; Phoenix, Arizona; Richmond, Virginia; and Chicago, Illinois. Aluminum alloys exposed originally in 1975 included 7016, 7046, X7029, and two experimental compositions. New exposures in 1977 included alloys 7129, 7021, 6009 and 6010. Specimens are scheduled for removal after 1-, 2-, and 4-years - 2-year panels were retrieved and evaluated in 1977 from Florida and Phoenix. One-year results from Richmond and Chicago will be reported here. Fullsize aluminum bumpers (with and without rub strips) having organic coatings, anodized coatings, and chrome-plated finishes were exposed also, along with chrome-plated steel.

In order to provide durability data on the use of adhesive bonding in automotive applications a comprehensive atmospheric exposure program was instituted in 1974. This program included both adhesive bonded and weld bonded joints. Samples bonded with an epoxy and vinyl plastisol adhesive were exposed at Pompano Beach, Fla., Phoenix, Ariz., Richmond, Va., and Chicago, Ill. After five years exposure, better durability was obtained with weld bonded joints than with straight adhesive bonded aluminum joints. The vinyl plastisol adhesive gave better durability when joining aluminum alloys to steel. Better durability was also obtained when metal surfaces were abraded prior to joining.

Comprehensive exposure tests are underway at Phoenix, Arizona; Chicago, Illinois; Pompano Beach, Florida; and Richmond, Virginia involving full-size aluminum and steel bumpers, bumper-stock panels, bimetallic body panels, and body filling repaired panels. Exposures include 1,2, and 4 yr removals plus control materials. This report includes a summary of the program and evaluations made from 1-yr removals and evaluations at the Phoenix and Florida Sites.