Salzsprühnebeltests

Salzsprühnebeltests, also known as salt spray tests, are a type of environmental testing used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of materials and surface coatings. This method involves exposing specimens to a controlled salt-laden atmosphere under specific temperature and humidity conditions. The primary goal is to simulate the corrosive effects of marine environments and other atmospheric conditions where salt is present.

The test is performed in a salt spray chamber. A solution, typically sodium chloride (NaCl) dissolved in deionized water, is atomized into a fine mist that fills the chamber. The concentration of the salt solution and the test parameters, such as temperature and duration, are standardized according to various international norms, such as ISO 9227, ASTM B117, or DIN EN ISO 6988. These standards ensure comparability of results across different laboratories and manufacturers.

During the test, any protective coatings on the material are expected to prevent or significantly delay the onset of corrosion. The appearance of the specimen is regularly inspected for signs of corrosion, such as rust, pitting, or blistering of the coating. The duration of the test until the first signs of corrosion appear, or the amount of corrosion after a specified period, serves as an indicator of the material's or coating's performance.

Salzsprühnebeltests are widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and electronics to qualify materials and assess the durability of protective finishes like paints, platings, and anodizing. While effective in simulating certain corrosive conditions, it is important to note that the salt spray test is an accelerated test and may not perfectly replicate all real-world corrosion scenarios. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable tool for quality control and material development.