4.1 This guide is intended to provide assistance in selecting appropriate tests for evaluating the general performance level to be expected of a coating or coating system on a given substrate exposed to a given type of environment. Table 1 represents a listing of all the tests.

4.2 Surface preparation or cleanliness prior to application of the coating can be critical to the proper performance of the coating.

4.3 Results obtained in the tests cited in this guide may not be adequate for predicting coating service life of a specific coating system in a specific environmental exposure. A suitable control coating system of known performance in the service environment should be included in the testing for comparison.

1.1 This guide covers the selection and use of test methods and procedures for testing industrial protective coatings. Selection of the standards to be followed must be governed by experience and the requirements in each individual case, together with agreement between the supplier and the user.

1.2 This guide covers the testing of liquid coatings as applied on substrate by brushing, rolling, spraying, or other means appropriate to the coating and circumstance.

Note 1: The term “industrial protective coating” as used in this guide is described in the scope of Subcommittee D01.461 as “paints applied to substrates on-site of structures and buildings, especially where subject to corrosive environments, as industrial, urban, and marine environments.”

Note 2: Guides for testing other coating types, such as Guides D4712, D5146, D5324 or for surface preparation, coating application, such as Guide D3276, are available and should be used when it is applicable.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.