The salt spray test is a widely used standardized method to assess the corrosion resistance of coated samples, which are typically metallic parts made from steel, zinc alloy, or brass. Coatings are applied to protect these parts from corrosion.
This accelerated test exposes the coated samples to a corrosive salt spray environment, mimicking real-world conditions to predict their effectiveness as protective finishes. During the test, the formation of corrosive products (such as oxides) is monitored over time. The duration of the test depends on the expected corrosion resistance of the coating; a longer period without signs of corrosion indicates higher resistance.
In industrial settings, the test equipment includes a closed chamber where a 5% sodium chloride solution is sprayed, creating a corrosive atmosphere. This environment subjects the parts to intense corrosion conditions. Tests conducted with this standardized solution are referred to as Neutral Salt Spray (NSS) tests. Results are typically reported as testing hours in NSS without visible corrosion products (e.g., 720 h in NSS according to ISO 9227).
Variants of the test include Acetic Salt Spray (ASS) and copper- accelerated acetic acid-salt spray (CASS) tests.
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