Protecting Your Buried Assets with Science-Backed Soil Corrosion Insights
Understanding the corrosive properties of soil is essential to protecting buried assets such as pipelines, tanks, and structural supports. At US Corrosion, we offer a range of soil corrosion testing that provides critical insights into soil chemistry, moisture levels, resistivity, microbial corrosion (MIC) and other key factors affecting corrosion rates. We can also help with GIS mapping to assess corrosion along the length of a pipeline or across a large area. With our comprehensive analysis, you’ll gain the data you need to make informed decisions about material selection, protective coatings, and cathodic protection strategies.
Our Testing Process
- Sample Collection: We work with you to ensure representative soil samples are collected from your site, maintaining strict procedures to avoid contamination. We can send a crew or provide instructions for others to collect the samples.
- Laboratory Analysis: Our lab conducts a series of tests, including:
- Soil Resistivity: Determines the soil’s ability to conduct electrical current, a major factor in corrosion potential, tested per ASTM G57.
- pH Levels: Measures soil acidity, an indicator of potential corrosive activity.
- Chloride and Sulfate Content: High concentrations can significantly increase corrosion risk. Testing is per ASTM C1580 and D512.
- Moisture Content and Permeability: Assess how well the soil retains water, impacting corrosion rate. Testing is per ASTM D2216 for moisture content.
- Corrosion Rate Determination: Corrosion can be assessed per ASTM G102: Standard Practice for Calculation of Corrosion Rates and Related Information from Electrochemical Measurements and ASTM G59: Standard Test Method for Conducting Potentiodynamic Polarization Resistance Measurements.
- Microbial Corrosion (MIC) Testing: Our MIC analysis services include DNA, microbial growth, and metallurgical evaluation capabilities for microbial corrosion.
- Corrosivity Assessment: Using industry standards, we interpret test results to classify the soil’s corrosion risk level.
Comprehensive Reporting
Each soil corrosion test comes with a detailed report that includes test data, interpretation, and recommendations. Our reports are designed to support your decision-making process, whether you need guidance on protective coatings, cathodic protection systems, or simply understanding the corrosive nature of the soil in your area.