How are Corrosion Coupons Analyzed?
After a corrosion coupon has been retrieved from the system it was monitoring, it must be analyzed to determine the amount of corrosion that has occurred. There are several methods that can be used to analyze a corrosion coupon, including visual inspection, weight loss analysis, and electrochemical methods.
Visual inspection is the simplest method of analyzing a corrosion coupon. The coupon is examined for signs of corrosion, such as rust, pitting, or discoloration. While visual inspection can provide some information about the extent and type of corrosion that has occurred, it is not a precise or quantitative method of analysis.
Weight loss analysis involves measuring the weight of the coupon before and after exposure to the corrosive environment. The difference in weight is then used to calculate the amount of material that has been lost due to corrosion. Weight loss analysis is a widely used and relatively simple method of analyzing a corrosion coupon, but it can be affected by factors such as surface fouling or corrosion inhibitor residues.
Electrochemical methods involve using specialized equipment to measure the electrochemical properties of the corrosion coupon. This can include measuring the corrosion potential, polarization resistance, or impedance of the coupon. Electrochemical methods are more complex than visual inspection or weight loss analysis, but they can provide more detailed and accurate information about the corrosion process, including localized corrosion and corrosion rate.
US Corrosion can provide a range of analytical services to our clients, including visual inspection, weight loss analysis, and electrochemical analysis. We can help our clients choose the most appropriate analysis method based on their specific needs and the nature of the system being monitored.
We’ve analyzed thousands of coupons and can provide a wide range of services:
- Cleaning in accordance with ASTM G1
- Weight loss analysis
- Surface debris evaluation with advanced analytical techniques such as SEM, FTIR, and XRD
- Cross-section and surface deposit analysis
- Pitting assessment
- Inhibitor or biocide selection
- Metallurgical consulting
- Failure analysis
Coupon Analysis from our Houston Lab
US Corrosion is a leader in the industry in corrosion coupon analysis. We offer rapid turnaround and excellent service, whether you just need a simple analysis or a detailed evaluation, our experts can help you!
Where to buy corrosion coupons?
We provide an enormous range of corrosion coupons to fit your needs. Our machine shop can often provide coupons within days of placing the order, along with analysis of the corrosion after testing and support to help you select and place the coupons in the best location.