PR-543-153601-R01 The Effects of Spray Polyurethane Foam on the Cathodic Protection of Pipelines

The current program examined the use of structural spray polyurethane foams (SPF) used in the pipeline industry as line supports (foam ditch pads) or as erosion-control devices (foam trench breakers). Of concern are requirements that pipelines are protected by “non-shielding” coatings and that cathodic protection design must consider “electrical shielding.” Cathodic protection current may pass through or around the foams depending on the foam properties, surrounding electrolyte conductivity, and foam bonding to the pipeline. The program studied SPF impacts on cathodic protection of simulated under-ground steel pipelines.