4.1 Corrosion testing by its very nature precludes complete standardization. This standard, rather than a standardized procedure, is presented as a guide so that some of the pitfalls of such testing may be avoided.

4.2 Experience has shown that all metals and alloys do not respond alike to the many factors that affect corrosion and that accelerated corrosion tests give indicative results only, or may even be entirely misleading. It is impractical to propose an inflexible standard laboratory corrosion testing procedure for general use, except for material qualification tests where standardization is required. One purpose for this guide is to promote better correlation of results in the future and the reduction of conflicting reports through a more detailed recording of meaningful factors and conditions.

4.3 In designing any corrosion test, consideration should be given to the various factors discussed in this guide, because these factors have been found to affect the results obtained.

1.1 This guide covers and describes the factors that influence laboratory immersion corrosion tests, particularly mass loss tests. These factors include apparatus, sampling, test specimen, test conditions (test solution composition, temperature, gas sparging, fluid motion, solution volume, method of supporting test specimens, duration of test), methods of cleaning test specimens, interpretation of results, and calculation of corrosion rates. This guide also emphasizes the importance of recording all pertinent data and provides a checklist for reporting test data.

1.2 The specific evaluation of localized attack, environmentally assisted cracking, and effects of solution flow are not within the scope of this guide.

1.3 This guide is intended to be used by those designing laboratory immersion tests who may not be familiar with all of the variables to consider and the pitfalls that could be encountered when designing and conducting this kind of testing. It should be used as a reference to ensure that the test will allow generation of data relevant to the application with the minimum of interferences.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.