The Dark Side of Salvaging: Metal Pirates and WWII Wrecks in the Oceans

When the ocean depths emit an untapped treasure of valuable metals, creative individuals with questionable intentions sequester the opportunity. Ships of World War II (WWII) lie at the bottom of the sea, waiting to be plundered. These wrecks are not only valuable for the materials they hold but also due to their historical significance, which makes their extraction a complex legal and ethical issue.

Why Steel from WWII Wrecks is Desirable

The term "metal pirates" is often used to describe these individuals who illegally salvage metals from sunken WWII vessels. The wreck sites are treasure troves of high-quality steel, copper, and other materials that make them financially appealing. Steel from these wrecks is highly desirable because it often has superior properties compared to modern steel, making it suitable for certain industries. Additionally, the scarcity and historical significance of these artifacts further drive up their value.

Material Composition

The steel used in many WWII vessels is often of high quality and resilient, making it valuable for certain applications. For instance, salvaging this steel can be likened to finding a rare gem. Historically, such ships were meticulously constructed with materials that stood the test of time. Moreover, the composition of these metals can include unique alloys and finishes, which are not always available in modern production.

Historical Significance

The wrecks themselves are significant historical artifacts. Some salvagers target specific wrecks for their historical value, believing that these artifacts can fetch high prices in the collectors market. This historical significance adds an element of prestige to the metals, further increasing their value.

Scarcity and Demand

As time goes on, the number of accessible wrecks diminishes due to natural degradation. This scarcity of certain materials, combined with the allure of history, drives up the prices of salvaged metals. Furthermore, there is a niche market for materials salvaged from wrecks, including collectors, museums, and enthusiasts interested in historical artifacts. This demand can incentivize the act of illegal salvaging, despite the risks involved.

Market Demand and Recycling Value

The metals from these wrecks have a recycling value, which provides a financial incentive for salvagers to extract them. The metal can be recycled and repurposed, making it an attractive option despite the challenges involved in harvesting it from the depths of the ocean.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Salvaging WWII wrecks raises complex legal and ethical issues. Many wrecks are considered war graves and disturbing them can be seen as disrespectful to those who lost their lives. Additionally, various international laws and treaties protect sunken military vessels, but enforcement can be challenging. Salvaging operations can also disrupt marine ecosystems and lead to pollution.

The Motivation Behind the Salvaging

Reasons for the salvaging of these wrecks are not singular. These "metal pirates" include sporadic groups of individuals with the capability to profit from the contents of these historical ships. The tomb of metals in these wrecks is vast, including not just steel but also precious metals like copper, oils, and fuels. The simplicity of accessing these resources makes illegal salvage an enticing prospect.

Prior to the atomic tests in 1945, the world was largely untouched by radiation. However, the first atomic tests unleashed a significant amount of radiation into the air, leading to widespread radioactive contamination. This contamination applies to just about everything, including the steel salvaged from pre-1945 WWII wrecks. Pre-atomic steel is almost essential to measuring equipment that deals with any form of radiation, as post-atomic steel would skew measurements. This demand has created a substantial market for pre-atomic steel, driving the illegal salvaging of these wrecks.

In conclusion, while the metals from WWII wrecks can be valuable, the act of salvaging them often involves complex legal and ethical dilemmas. Despite these challenges, the historical and financial value of these wrecks continue to draw those with questionable intentions, making the process a contentious one.