Effect of corrosion inhibiting compounds on fatigue of riveted joints

This paper discusses the effect of applying Corrosion Inhibiting Compounds (CICs) on riveted lap joints typically used on small aircraft. Experimental investigations were conducted with constant amplitude fatigue loading, and with multiple load levels. The results suggested that the application of CICs promoted changes in the fatigue life of single lap joints. At high load and low load levels, the application of CICs did not cause any significant change in fatigue life, but there was a reduction in tests conducted at medium load level. The effects observed, including changes in failure mode, can be explained by a reduction in frictional load transfer due to the presence of CICs, coupled with the further influence of the riveting force applied during the assembly of the joints.