SSPC-Guide 15

June 1, 2005

SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings

TECHNOLOGY GUIDE 15
Field Methods for Retrieval and Analysis
of Soluble Salts on Steel and Other Nonporous Substrates

1. Scope detection tube method (ISO 8502-

5:1998)
Part 6 Extraction of soluble contaminants
1.1 This Guide describes the most commonly used field for analysis–The Bresle method
methods for the retrieval and analysis of soluble salts on steel (ISO 8502-6:1995)
and other nonporous substrates. Laboratory methods are only Part 9 Field method for conductimetric
included for situations where laboratory control is desired. Much determination of water-soluble
of this information was contained in SSPC-TU 4, Field Methods salts (ISO 8502-9:1998)
for the Retrieval and Analysis of Soluble Salts on Substrates, Part 10: Field method for the titrimetric
which will be withdrawn after publication of this Guide.1 determination of water-soluble
chloride (ISO 8502-10:1999)
2. Description and Use Part 12: Field method for the titrimetric
determination of water-soluble
ferrous ions (ISO 8502-12:2003)
2.1 Coatings applied on surfaces contaminated with
soluble salts exceeding a certain concentration exhibit dimin- 4. Retrieval Methods
ished performance. This Guide is intended to assist the user
in selecting specific procedures for retrieving and analyzing
soluble salts. Section 4 of the Guide discusses the various 4.1 CLASSES OF RETRIEVAL METHODS: Salt retrieval
methods for retrieving salts from a surface. Section 5 discusses methods employed to help determine surface concentrations
the analytical methods used to determine the concentration of salt on substrates fall into three general classes, which can
of the soluble salts in the extracted solution. See Appendix E be further subdivided. (See Appendix E for links to information
for links to information on sources for testing equipment and on testing equipment and materials.)
materials.
4.1.1 Class A: Class A retrieval involves a methodology
3. Referenced Standards for containing a liquid that is held in contact with a surface of
predetermined area. Turbulence within the contacting liquid
3.1 SSPC STANDARDS AND JOINT STANDARDS:1 enhances the dissolution of the salt contamination into the
solution.
SP 5/NACE No. 1 White Metal Blast Cleaning
Method A1: Patch Cell Retrieval Method: This method
3.2 INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STAN- utilizes a small adhesive patch covered with a latex film, which
DARDIZATION (ISO) STANDARDS:2 attaches to the structure forming a cell cavity. Self-contained
adhesive edges allow the cell to adhere to the surface. Distilled
ISO 8502 Preparation of steel substrates or deionized water or a proprietary extraction liquid is then
before application of paints and injected into its center with a hypodermic needle. The patch
related products - Tests for the as- fills up like a large paint blister. The liquid is massaged against
sessment of surface cleanliness the surface being tested, retrieved from the patch using the
Part 2 Laboratory determination of chlo- hypodermic needle, and tested for concentration of ions.
ride on cleaned surfaces (ISO
8502-2:1992) Method A2:Sleeve Retrieval Method: This method uses
Part 5 Measurement of chloride on steel a small flexible chloride-free latex sleeve (sock) with a self-
surfaces prepared for painting– Ion contained adhesive edge that is attached to the structure being

1
Single copies of withdrawn standards may be obtained from SSPC upon request.
2
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case Postale 56, Geneva CH-1211, Switzerland. ISO standards may be obtained
through the American National Standards Institute, 1819 L Street, NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20036 (www.ansi.org).

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tested, forming a cavity. A salt retrieval solution is dosed into the curate measurement of salt contamination, because salts in
sleeve prior to attachment. The solution is massaged against the bottoms of deep pits may escape detection.
the surface being tested for a specified period of time and is
then removed. The sleeve then is removed and the solution 4.2 EXTRACT SOLUTION: All the retrieval procedures
tested for levels of chloride and/or nitrate. A kit is available for described in this document use deionized or distilled water
this method, with operating instructions and a pre-measured (designated as reagent water) or a proprietary solution.
(fixed volume) proprietary solution.
4.2.1 Reagent Water: Reagent water used for salt retrieval
4.1.2 Class B: Class B retrieval involves a methodology should have a maximum conductivity of 5 microsiemens per
for containing a known volume of liquid within a measured centimeter (µS/cm). Distilled water may be purchased at gro-
area that is in contact with the surface. There may or may not cery stores but verification of the conductivity is recommended.
be mechanical rubbing of the surface. Alternatively, a portable demineralizer may be used to make
deionized water on site. Pour tap water into the plastic bottle,
Method B1: Swabbing or Washing Methods: A low attach the demineralizer cartridge in the direction indicated,
conductivity liquid such as deionized water and cotton swabs invert, and squeeze out the desired amount of water (for many
are used to extract salts from a surface. The method requires of the tests described below, at least 25 mL will be required).
that the operator wear non-chlorinated latex rubber gloves to The cartridge can be used until the blue color turns brown, as
prevent cross contamination of the surface or the retrieved indicated on the side of the cartridge. Once this occurs, replace
sample by salts naturally present on the surface of the skin. the cartridge. Each cartridge should deionize approximately
After swabbing the surface, the liquid is tested for concentra- 3000 mL of water.
tion of ions.
4.2.2 Proprietary Solutions: Proprietary solutions may
Method B2: Filter Paper Extraction Method: A pre-wet- be included with commercial extraction kits. These solutions
ted absorbent filter paper is placed on the surface from which should only be used for the soluble salts described in the kit
the salt is to be extracted. The paper wets the surface and instructions. Proprietary solutions are not normally suitable for
extracts soluble salts. After a pre-determined time, the paper measuring conductivity of extracted solutions.
is removed from the surface and placed over the electrodes
of a resistivity meter. The meter indicates the conductivity of 4.3 PATCH CELL RETRIEVAL METHOD: The patch cell
the wetted paper. The conductivity is proportional to the total sampling procedure is described in detail in ISO 8502-6.
dissolved salts.
4.3.1 Sample Acquisition Procedure
4.1.3 Class C: Class C retrieval is used only in a labora- 1. Remove the backing and the foam insert from the test
tory setting and involves immersing the entire surface in boiling cell and apply the cell firmly and tightly to a dry test
water. This method uses a predetermined volume of extraction surface. All orientations, including vertical, horizontal,
liquid and a predetermined surface area. or overhead are acceptable.
2. Insert the needle attached to the 5 mL syringe into
Method C: Boiling Extraction Method: This method the cell through its spongy foam perimeter, taking
involves the use of boiling deionized water to extract salts from care not to inject beneath the foam or into the latex
a sample coupon. This method is intended to be used for the film. Evacuate the air from the test area by pulling
extraction of salts from sample substrates in a laboratory setting. back on the plunger. Expel the air from the syringe.
It may be used as a reference method to derive retrieval rates Fill the syringe with 3 mL of the extraction liquid.
for the patch cell, sleeve, swabbing, and filter paper extraction 3. Inject 3 mL or other designated quantity of extraction
methods described above. It may also be used for field samples liquid into the above cell taking care to keep air bubbles
cut from a structure or test panels exposed in a field or lot or out of the syringe. Hold the cell perimeter firmly during
cabinet. This method is described in Appendix A. this operation to prevent water leakage.
4. Remove the needle from the cell center (but not the
4.1.4 The first four methods can be used to help character- spongy foam perimeter) and gently rub the top of the
ize surfaces encountered in either laboratory or field settings. cell for 10 to 15 seconds to encourage dissolution
In general, boiling extraction methods are only useful under of soluble salts. Increasing the massage time may
laboratory conditions. No field or laboratory method is believed increase the efficiency of the extraction liquid.
capable of retrieving all the soluble salt from a surface. The 5. Withdraw and re-inject the extraction liquid a minimum
proportion of salt retrieved by field methods depends on the of three times, each time gently rubbing the top of the
method used, the roughness of the examined surface, the cell for 10 to 15 seconds. Then, remove as much of the
degree of rusting, and the ambient conditions. The presence extraction liquid as possible and place it in a clean vial
of pits or deep craters on the surface can lead to grossly inac- or other container. A new clean container should be

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used for each test, or if reused, the container should 2. Remove the pressure sensitive backing from the
be rinsed two or more times with reagent water. sleeve adhesive ring.
6. If additional testing requires a higher volume of 3. Remove most of the air from within the sleeve by
extraction liquid than that afforded by the extraction squeezing the sleeve between fingers and thumb.
procedure, add extraction liquid to raise the sample Do not spill any extraction solution from the sleeve
volume to the required level and note the new sample when evacuating air.
volume and dilution percentage. 4. Firmly apply the sleeve to the test surface. Lift and hold
7. Use the extraction liquid from step 6 to determine the free end of sleeve upright to allow the extraction
chloride ion concentration, ferrous ion concentration, liquid to come into contact with the surface
or other ion concentrations using one of the methods 5. Use the other hand to massage the solution through
described in Section 5 (see Section 4.2.2). the sleeve against the surface for 2 minutes. It should
8. If additional samples are to be taken, always use a be noted that increasing the massage time (e.g., up
fresh cell and clean syringe and needle; this will avoid to 6 minutes) will increase the extent of salt removal.
cross contamination between samples. When the massage is complete, remove the sleeve
and solution from the surface. For vertical or overhead
4.3.2 Advantages of the Patch Cell Method: surfaces, the extract solution will return to the lowered
1. The adhesively attached cells can conform to curved area in test sleeve. For horizontal surfaces press and
and irregular surfaces. slide a finger across the sleeve to move the solution
2. Cells such as these are commercially available in to the closed end of the sleeve prior to removal.
a variety of sizes; the most commonly used size
retrieves salt from a surface of 12.5 cm2. Smaller cell 4.4.2 Advantages of the Sleeve Retrieval Method:
sizes permit assays of salt levels to be made at local 1. This method is very simple to perform, as all compo-
corrosion sites such as craters or pits. nents are pre-measured.
3. If reagent water has been used as the extraction liquid, 2. The adhesive sleeve can conform to curved and ir-
conductivity can be determined using commercially regular surfaces. Tests can be performed on vertical,
available conductivity meters. horizontal, and overhead surfaces.
4. Acidic extraction liquids (such as the one furnished in 3. For extremely rough or pitted surfaces, the seal ring
the proprietary kit for this procedure) normally provide may be doubled, thereby allowing testing to be per-
better extraction efficiency than deionized water. formed.
4. The kit form of this method provides a pre-measured
4.3.3 Limitations of the Patch Cell Method: volume of extraction solution and a fixed area of the
1. The adhesively attached cells only accommodate a sleeve opening. These features are designed to pro-
small amount of retrieval liquid. With the most com- vide a direct final reading in micrograms per square
monly used cell size (12.5 cm2 surface area), the centimeter (µg/cm2).
actual quantity of cell liquid contacting the surface is 5. All components are one-time usage, eliminating cross
3 mL. This can limit the range of analyses that can contamination from test to test.
be performed. 6. In hot weather or on hot surfaces, the encapsulated
2. No in-line determination of conductivity can be per- extract solution will not evaporate.
formed with these cells. 7. The extractions also provide sufficient sample size
3. The cell may not adhere well to rusted surfaces, for analyses to be performed for different ions.
but it may adhere so well to abrasive blast cleaned 8. Acidic extraction liquids (such as the one furnished in
surfaces that it is difficult to remove. the proprietary kit for this procedure) normally provide
4. The cell may leak through the hole introduced by the better extraction efficiency than deionized water.
syringe.
5. The cells are consumable and can be used only 4.4.3 Limitations of the Sleeve Retrieval Method:
once. 1. The adhesive sleeve may not adhere well to rusted
surfaces, but it may adhere so well to abrasive blast
4.3.4 Retrieval Efficiency: see Appendix D. cleaned surfaces that it is difficult to remove.
3. No in-line conductivity testing can be performed with
4.4 SLEEVE RETRIEVAL METHOD the sleeves.
4. The sleeves are consumable and can be used only
4.4.1 Sample Acquisition Procedure once.
1. Remove the cap from the bottle of premeasured extract
and pour the entire contents into the sleeve. 4.4.4 Retrieval Efficiency: see Appendix D.

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4.5 SWABBING OR WASHING METHOD 4.5.4 Limitations of Swabbing Method:

1. Swabbing methods are difficult to perform in an
The materials, procedures, and advantages and limi- overhead or vertical position. Extracted liquid may
tations are described below. A similar procedure is described be lost dripping from the swabs.
in ISO 8502-2, Sections 5 and 6. 2. Swabbing is not well suited for measuring salt levels
of small, localized contamination such as craters or
4.5.1 Procedure for Swabbing Method: pits.
1. Use a ruler and chloride free marker to outline a 3. There is a risk of contamination of a sample by the
representative surface area of specific size (e.g., 15 operator if gloves or any other equipment used for
by 15 cm [6 by 6 inch]). these procedures become damaged.
2. From a graduated cylinder, pour a measured volume 4. In hot weather or on hot surfaces the extraction liquid
(e.g., 22.5 mL) of reagent water into one of two plastic may evaporate on the surface prior to its removal.
beakers (beaker A.) (Note: The suggested sample
volume and area computes to 1 mL per 10 cm2. This 4.6 FILTER PAPER EXTRACTION METHOD
can simplify later calculations of salt contamination
levels.) 4.6.1 Sample Acquisition Procedure:
3. Repeat step 2 with the second beaker (beaker B).
4. Using a pair of tweezers or chloride free latex or rubber 1. Put on a pair of clean chloride free latex or rubber
gloves, dampen a sterile cotton ball or chloride free gloves.
small sponge in the water in beaker A. Thoroughly 2. Fill a syringe with the specified level (about 2 mL) of
swab the area measured in step 1, taking care to reagent water (see Section 4.2.1).
avoid dripping the liquid on the surface. After swab- 3. Eject the water from the syringe onto the paper surface
bing, swirl the applicator (cotton ball or sponge) in taking care to retain as much water as possible on the
the water and then squeeze it against the inside of paper. Note: Use only sample paper recommended
beaker A to extract as much water as possible from by the manufacturer as soluble salt free. Commercial
the applicator. filter papers are not suitable as they can contain
5. Repeat this swabbing, swirling, and squeezing opera- excessive salt levels.
tion four times with fresh applicators and then leave 4. Place the wetted paper on the area to be sampled,
the applicators in the water in beaker A. pressing it firmly into its contours and surface irregu-
6. Use an applicator to dry the measured test area and larities.
place it in beaker A. 5. Press out as much entrapped air as possible from
7. Stir the water and applicators for two minutes to beneath the paper.
achieve thorough mixing and to extract salts from 6. When 2 minutes have elapsed, remove the sample
the cotton swabs or sponge. paper from the surface for analysis.
8. Record the final volume. Refer to Section 5.3 for analysis procedure.
9. Take the same number of fresh applicators, identical to
those used in steps 4 through 7 above, and immerse 4.6.2 Advantage of Filter Paper Extraction Method:The
them in beaker B. Then stir as in Steps 4 and 5, and filter paper procedure is relatively simple and is less subject
let sit, covered, for at least three minutes. This will to operator error.
provide the control sample.
4.6.3 Limitations of Filter Paper Extraction Method:
4.5.2 Retrieval Efficiency: see Appendix D:
1. The instrument measures total soluble salts, rather
4.5.3 Advantages of Swabbing Method: than a specific ion such as chloride or nitrate.
1. The swabbing retrieval method provides a means 2. There is no independent data on the accuracy or
for acquiring samples of salt from steel or other non- precision of this method.
porous surfaces using readily available materials. 3. The water is subject to evaporation loss under condi-
2. Retrievals can be conducted on a range of surfaces tions of high temperature and/or low humidity.
without regard to surface irregularities or condition.
3. The swabbing method can be used on large areas 5. Analytical Methods
to indicate general surface contamination by salts.
4. The extractions also provide sufficient sample size for 5.1 QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS: This section discusses
several analyses to be performed for different ions. the most common analytical methods used to determine the
amount of soluble salt contamination in the extracted solution.

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The following substances and quantities are described: Subtract Reading One from ReadingTwo. The resulting
• Conductivity number is the corrected conductivity of the extracted liquid. A
• Soluble Chloride Ion similar method is also described in ISO 8502-9.
• Soluble Ferrous Ion See Appendix C for a procedure to estimate equivalent chlo-
• Soluble Sulfate Ion ride ion surface concentrations from conductivity of extract.
• Soluble Nitrate Ion
5.3 FIELD PROCEDURE FOR ANALYZING FILTER
5.1.1 Precision and Accuracy of Quantitative Measure- PAPER FOR SOLUBLE SALTS: Place the sample paper
ments: In response to requests from SSPC, some suppliers over the concentric copper electrodes of the resistivity meter,
of proprietary equipment have provided data on precision and ensuring that the outer ring is completely covered. All air must
accuracy of analytical methods. If this information was provided, be excluded from beneath the paper. The lid is closed, and
it is given in the section describing the method. Information after seconds, the reading is displayed in µg/cm2, based on
provided by suppliers has not been verified by third-party test- sodium chloride. The manufacturer of one device has prepared
ing. Users are advised to contact the manufacturers directly charts showing the variation in the salt level readings due to
to obtain additional information that is not provided in the simulated marine and simulated urban salt concentrations and
guide. See Appendix E for links to equipment suppliers and due to temperature.
manufacturers.
5.4 FIELD DETECTION OF CHLORIDE ION BY ION
5.2 FIELD MEASUREMENT OF CONDUCTIVITY (TOTAL DETECTION TUBE: This method uses sealed vacuum tubes
SOLUBLE SALTS) with crystals impregnated with silver dichromate (pink). The
ends of the tubes are snapped off, opening the tube much like
5.2.1 This method provides a measurement of solution a straw. When one end of the tube is immersed in the extract
conductivity. Conductivity is a measure of the total dissolved solution, capillary action wicks the solution to the top of the
salts. tube. On contact with the chloride ion the silver dichromate
converts to silver chloride (white). When the solution reaches
5.2.2 Types of conductivity meters: Commercially avail- the top of the tube, the white cotton at the top changes color
able portable conductivity meters available include “pocket” to amber. This indicates the titration is complete. Graduations
type, “cup” type, and meters with specific features. The “pocket” on the side of the tube provide the level of chloride ions pres-
types are operated by placing the probe into the liquid to be ent in the solution. This method, described in ISO 8502-5,
analyzed. For the “cup” type, the liquid is placed in a cup that can detect chloride levels from 1 to 2000 ppm, using tubes
forms part of the meter. One special meter is that described with varying ranges of detection. The tube most commonly
in Section 5.3 for analyzing the filter paper. Each meter has used for surface testing of chlorides has a detection range of
its own degree of accuracy. +0 to 60 ppm. One supplier provided the following data on
standard deviation (sd) at different concentrations (C): C of
5.2.3 Test Procedure 1.0 ppm, sd of 0.38 ppm; C of 3.0 ppm, sd of 0.17 ppm; C of
5.0 ppm, sd of 0.30 ppm; C of 10 ppm, sd of 0.48 ppm; C of
5.2.3.1 Procedure for pocket-type conductivity meters: 30 ppm, sd of 0.50 ppm. See Appendix B for information on
This procedure entails two measurements: the first of the control converting from a solution concentration in ppm to a surface
solution (typically reagent water), which is Reading One, and concentration in µg/cm2.
the second of the extraction liquid, which is Reading Two. Wash
the probe end of conductivity meter with reagent water prior to 5.5 FIELD DETECTION OF CHLORIDE ION BY PAPER
each reading to prevent cross contamination. Place the probe STRIP METHOD: To determine the chloride level, place the
end of a calibrated conductivity meter into the reagent water and lower end of a test strip into the extracted solution. Allow the
record the reading on the meter (Reading One). Then repeat solution to wick up and saturate the test strip, as indicated by
the procedure for the extracted liquid (Reading Two). Subtract the yellow band across the top of the strip turning blue (about
Reading One from Reading Two. The resulting number is the 5 minutes). Then, record the scale number at the top edge of
corrected conductivity of the extracted liquid. the white column (chloride ion causes the existing tan color on
the strip to turn white) and compare it with the conversion chart
5.2.3.2 Procedure for cup-type conductivity meters: enclosed with the test strip bottle. The range of concentration
If an external cup conductivity meter is used, transfer about over which this method is useful is from 30 to 600+ ppm chlo-
10 milliliters of the reagent water into the cup of the calibrated ride ion. The precision reported by one manufacturer is ± 10%
conductivity meter. Select the appropriate range and record the chloride. Note: The reading from the strip must be converted
conductivity reading in µS/cm (Reading One). Transfer some to ppm using the supplied conversion chart corresponding to
of the extracted liquid into the cup and record conductivity the batch of test strips used for the analysis. See Appendix B
(Reading Two). for information on converting from a solution concentration in
ppm to a surface concentration in µg/cm2.

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5.6 FIELD DETECTION OF CHLORIDE ION BY FIELD actual concentration may range from that computed from the
TITRATION METHOD preceding drop to the concentration computed from formulas
1 and 2 (e.g., for 4 drops from Reagent Bottle 4 for a solution
5.6.1 Test Procedure: A commercially available test extracted from a surface area of 12.5 cm2, the concentration
kit is used to analyze the solution collected from the surface. range would be 6 to 8 µg/cm2). (Commonly used patch cells
The titration (sometimes referred to as “drop titration”) is have a surface area of 12.5 cm2.) This method does not deter-
performed on a small sample (2 to 3 mL) from the extracted mine a specific surface concentration of chloride ion, but rather
solution. The kit includes four solutions contained in separate the results are reported as a range, e.g., greater than 6 and
reagent bottles. The procedure is as follows: less than 8 µg/cm2 chloride ion. One manufacturer reports a
sampling accuracy of 1 to 2 µg/cm2 or 5 to 10 µg/cm2 depend-
1. Using Reagent Bottle 1, press (squeeze) out 2 drops ing on the specific titration chemicals used. No information on
of red indicator liquid into a plastic vial containing the precision was provided.
sample solution. Carefully agitate the liquid until it is
homogeneous in color (purple). 5.7 LABORATORY REFERENCE METHOD FOR DE-
TECTION OF CHLORIDE ION BY TITRATION: ISO 8502-2,
2. Using Reagent Bottle 2, squeeze out 2 drops into the “Laboratory determination of chloride on cleaned surfaces,”
vial. The sample liquid should be yellow in color. If not, describes a titration method based on the reaction of chloride
add drop-by-drop additional Reagent 2 until sample ion with mercuric nitrate to form insoluble mercuric chloride.
turns yellow, agitating between each drop addition. The indicator is a solution of diphenylcarbazole/bromophenol
blue, which turns to an intense violet color to indicate the
3. At this point, a judgment should be made as to how completion of the titration.
much chloride is anticipated. If low surface con-
centrations (0 to 10 µg/cm2) are expected, proceed 5.8 QUALITATIVE FIELD DETECTION OF FERROUS
using Reagent Bottle 4. If higher concentrations are ION: In this method (described in ISO 8502-12) blotting paper
expected, proceed using Reagent Bottle 3. is treated with potassium ferricyanide solution. The blotting
paper is moistened and placed in contact with the steel surface
4. For low concentrations, add, drop by drop, the con- to be tested. On contact with ferrous ions, the paper shows
tents of Reagent Bottle 4. For high concentrations, blue spots. The sensitivity of the method is less than 1 ppm
add, drop by drop, the contents of Reagent Bottle 3. ferrous ion. No information on precision is available, as this
In either case, thoroughly agitate the solution after is a qualitative test.
the addition of each drop. Count the number of drops
required to turn the solution from yellow to blue, thor- Potassium ferricyanide test paper may be used as an
oughly agitating the solution after the addition of each economical screening test for active corrosion sites. It is spe-
drop. The procedure is described in ISO 8502-10. cific to soluble ferrous ion. When used properly, it will not give
false negatives, but may produce false positives. If soluble salt
5.6.2 Determining surface concentration: Each drop concentration is suspected due to a positive indication using
from Reagent Bottle 4 is equivalent to approximately 25 µg of potassium ferricyanide paper, then confirming tests utilizing
chloride recovered from the surface. Each drop from Reagent another ion-specific test method may be required.
Bottle 3 is equivalent to approximately 125 µg of chloride recov-
ered from the surface. Use the following formulas to determine 5.9 QUANTITATIVE FIELD DETECTION OF FERROUS
the maximum surface concentration in µg/cm2 (see note below) ION: To determine the ferrous ion concentration in parts per
knowing the surface area (cm2) and the number of drops. million, moisten a ferrous ion test strip with the solution being
tested and compare the resulting color to the color chart on the
For Reagent Bottle 4: container label. A complex is formed between 1,10-phenanth-
roline and ferrous ion that has a vivid red color. Color changes
maximum surface 25 • (# drops) are seen even at ferrous ion concentrations below 1 ppm.
concentration (µg/cm2) =
surface area (cm2) Typical concentration ranges for test strips are between 0.5
and 10 ppm ferrous ion. Iron test strips from one manufacturer
For Reagent Bottle 3: are graduated in unequal steps: 0-3-10-15-50-100-250-500
maximum surface 125 • (# drops) ppm. No data is available on the precision of this technique.
=
concentration (µg/cm2) surface area (cm2) See Appendix B for information on converting from a solution
concentration in ppm of solution to a surface concentration
Note: Because it is impossible to determine whether the in µg/cm2. Note that a proprietary kit provides the readings
entire drop or a fraction of the drop was needed to turn the directly in µg/cm2.
solution from yellow to blue, the concentrations derived from
the above formulas represent the maximum concentrations. The

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6.2 While every precaution is taken to ensure that all in-

5.10 FIELD DETECTION OF SULFATE ION: This method formation furnished in SSPC guides is as accurate, complete,
works on the principle that if sulfate is present in the solution, and useful as possible, SSPC cannot assume responsibility
it becomes turbid (cloudy) when barium chloride is added. nor incur any obligation resulting from the use of any materials
The simplest instrument for measuring the degree of turbidity or methods described herein, or of the guide itself.
in the field is the optical comparator. Barium chloride is avail-
able as powder or pre-measured tablets. The tablets are more 6.3 This guide does not attempt to address problems
convenient to use but take a little longer to dissolve. Panes concerning safety associated with its use. The user of this
of plastic with a known degree of cloudiness are compared guide, as well as the user of all products or practices described
side by side with the sample prepared using the kit. The pane herein, is responsible for instituting appropriate health and
closest in cloudiness to that of the sample is taken as the safety practices and for ensuring compliance with all govern-
sample sulfate level. The interval between each pane value mental regulations.
has to be quite large, because the eye is not as discriminat-
ing as a well-calibrated spectrophotometer in the laboratory. APPENDIX A: Boiling Extraction Method
Also, because the eye is not sensitive to very low levels of
turbidity, the minimum level of sulfate that can be detected A.1 Materials Required: This laboratory reference pro-
by this method is around 20 ppm. No data is available on the cedure requires the following items (all apparatus and sample
precision of this technique. See Appendix B for information on containers should be previously cleaned with deionized or
converting from a solution concentration in ppm of solution to distilled water):
a surface concentration in µg/cm2. 1. Hot plate with thermostatic control
2. Reagent water, conductivity no greater than 5 µS/cm
5.11 FIELD DETECTION OF SULFATE ION BY PHOTO- 3. Inert glass granules to prevent bumping of boiling
ELECTRIC COLORIMETER: This proprietary method uses an water. (Note: the use of boiling stones or chips is not
electronic microprocessor, factory programmed, that measures suggested, as these contribute ions to the water and
the turbidity of a solution after barium chloride powder has buffer the pH of the extraction liquid on the alkaline
been mixed with the test solution. This method is more sensi- side.)
tive than the visual method (Section 5.10). The colorimeter 4. Steel panels of known dimensions (e.g., 10 x 15 x
readings are in parts per million (ppm), and the range is from 0.64 cm [4 x 6 x 1/4 inch]), previously cleaned to
1 to 100 ppm. The supplier reports that the accuracy of this reflect the specification level of cleanliness used in
unit over the full photometric range is ± 2%. See Appendix B the field, using the same abrasive as used in the field.
for information on converting from ppm of the test solution to If a level of cleanliness is not specified, then panels
µg/cm2 of the surface concentration. Note: the proprietary kit are cleaned to SSPC-SP 5/NACE No. 1.
provides the readings directly in µg/cm2. 5. Stainless steel or Pyrex pans of dimension no less
than 15 x 20 x 5 cm (6 x 8 x 2 inch)
5.12 FIELD DETECTION OF NITRATE ION BY PAPER 6. Test panels of dimensions no greater than 13 x 18 x
STRIP: To determine the nitrate concentration, place the lower 2.5 cm (5 x 7 x 1 inch)
end of a test strip into the extract for two seconds. Allow the 7. 500 mL graduated cylinder
strip to stand for one minute. Observe the color and compare 8. Stainless steel tongs
to the color shown on the strip. The technique measures the 9. Conical funnel
solution concentration in ppm. The detection range is up to 10. 750 mL laboratory storage bottle
50 ppm nitrate. No data is available on the precision of this
technique. See Appendix B1 for information on converting a A.2 Sample Acquisition Procedure
solution concentration in ppm of solution to a surface concen- 1. Place the following items in the pan:
tration in µg/cm2. Note: a proprietary kit provides the readings • Approximately 350 mL of reagent water
directly in ppm. • Between 5 and 10 anti-bumping granules
• A test panel (see item 4 of Section A.1).
6. Disclaimer 2. Place the pan on the hot plate and raise water tem-
perature to boiling over a period from 10 to 20 minutes.
6.1 This guide is designed to describe, review, or analyze Maintain the temperature at boiling for 1 hour. The test
new or improved technology and does not meet the defini- panel must be kept completely submerged. If liquid
tion of a standard as defined by SSPC. A guide differs from is lost by boiling evaporation, it must be replenished
a standard in that it is (a) a set of instructions or organized during the test. If the panel is placed horizontally in
information based on a consensus of best industry practice, the pan, turn the panel over after 30 minutes.
and (b) a set of directions provided to aid in preparing one’s 3. At the end of the test, turn off the hot plate, and remove
own modified specifications. the pan from the hot plate. Allow the liquid in the pan
to cool for at least 30 minutes.

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SSPC-Guide 15
June 1, 2005

4. The steel test panel may be removed from the pan Example:
with stainless steel tongs either hot or after cooling. E = 10 µg/cm2
It should be rinsed with a small quantity of reagent A= 12.5 cm2
water to remove any soluble salt ions from the sur- V= 2 mL
face, and drained over the pan. When the panel has
12.5
drained dry, remove it from the work area. C = 10 • = 62.5 ppm
2
5. Using the conical funnel, transfer the liquid in the
pan to the graduated cylinder. Add sufficient reagent B3. Unit Conversions:
water to the graduated cylinder to bring the volume
of material up to 500 ml. 1 ppm = 1 µg/cc of water
6. Mix the total liquid thoroughly by transferring it between 1 mL = 1 cc = 1 cm3
the storage bottle and the graduated cylinder. 1 µg/cm2 = 10 mg/m2

A.3 Advantage of Boiling Extraction Method: This APPENDIX C: Determining Equivalent Surface
method provides a benchmark for determining the maximum Concentration From Conductivity
retrieval efficiency of field retrieval methods.
Note: The ability to remove all of the soluble salt ions from
A.4 Limitation of Boiling Extraction Method: This the surface of a structure that has been in service for extended
method is unsuited for use in the field. The use of laboratory- periods of time and is severely corroded and or pitted has not
contaminated samples may provide some indication of relative yet been demonstrated. Therefore, all extraction tests remove
extraction efficiencies, but because field conditions responsible less than 100% of the soluble salt ions from the structures,
for salt contamination are highly variable, it is best to use actual and the amount in the samples represents an unknown per-
field samples where possible. centage of the amount actually existing on the structure. The
test methods that are indicated in this document are therefore
APPENDIX B: Conversions semi-quantitative and do not represent the actual amount of
soluble salt ions existing on the structure.
B.1 Determining Surface Concentration from Solution
Concentration: One can convert the solution concentration C.1 Equivalent Surface Concentration of Chloride from
to an equivalent surface concentration as follows: Conductivity of Chloride Solution:This procedure may be
used when one suspects that the only (or major) soluble salt
where: present on a surface is chloride. Assuming that all salt is pres-
V ent as chloride can provide a worst-case scenario, as chloride
E=C• (Formula 1) is generally agreed to be the most aggressive in accelerating
A
corrosion and inducing osmotic blistering.
C = solution concentration in ppm (µg/cm3) One can estimate the solution concentration from the con-
E = surface concentration in µg/cm2 ductivity if one knows or assumes the identity of the soluble salt.
V = volume of extract solution in mL (1 mL = 1 cm3) For example, if one assumes that the salt is sodium chloride
A= area in cm2 only, the solution concentration is estimated as follows:
where:
Example:
C = 42 ppm E = (0.3) • S • V
(Formula 3*)
A= 12.5 cm2 A
V= 2 mL
E = surface concentration of equivalent chloride in
2 µg/cm2
E = 42 • = 6.7 µg/cm2
12.5 S = conductivity in µS/cm
V = volume of extract solution in mL
B.2 Determining Solution Concentration from Surface A = area in cm2
Concentration: One can convert the surface concentration to
an equivalent solution concentration as follows: Example:
S = 70 µS/cm
C=E• A
(Formula 2) V = 2 mL
V
where: A = 12.5 cm2
C = solution concentration in ppm (µg/cm3)
E = surface concentration in µg/cm2 * This formula is valid only where sodium chloride is the only
V = volume of extract solution in mL soluble salt and at low concentrations. In actual field samples,
there are almost always other salts present.
A= area in cm2

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 SSPC-Guide 15
June 1, 2005

originally on that surface. The extraction efficiency varies sig-

2
E = 0.3 •70 • = 3.4 µg/cm2 of equivalent chloride nificantly among different situations. Some of the significant
12.5
variables are:
• The method of extraction
C.2 Equivalent Surface Concentration of Total Salt • The proficiency of the operator
from Conductivity: Based on measurement of the average • The degree of roughness of the surface
conductivity from 12 representative samples of soluble salts, an • The size of the area from which salt is extracted
ISO committee developed the following formula for converting • The type and concentration of the salt
conductivity to surface concentration of salts (ISO 8502-9). • The degree of corrosion and pitting of the substrate
• The extraction time
• The method of contamination (i.e., by artificial or natural
E1 = (0.5) • S • V (Formula 4) methods)
A
Several studies have been conducted to evaluate the
Where: efficiency of extraction. For several laboratory studies, the
E1= surface concentration of total chloride in researchers applied specific quantities of salts over defined
µg/ cm2 areas to provide an average concentration as a control. In a
S = conductivity in µS/cm few studies, the steel substrates were exposed to the salts
V = volume of extract solution in mL (e.g., in an accelerated laboratory chamber or in atmospheric
A = area in cm2 exposures). For these tests, the control concentration was
determined using the total extraction method (boiling). The
Example: researchers assumed that this technique would extract 100%
S = 70 µS/cm of the soluble salts. Some studies have questioned the validity
V = 2 mL of using artificially doped test panels to establish extraction
A = 12.5 cm2 efficiency.
From a review of the published literature one concludes
2
E1 = 0.5 • 70 • = 5.6 µg/cm2 of soluble salt that there is not enough data to develop specific extraction
12.5 efficiencies for the various extraction procedures. A list of
sources for extraction efficiencies is given below.
C.3 Comparison of Methods C.1 and C.2
Bibliography for Appendix D
The methods C.1 and C.2 give very similar results. Alblas, B.P. and van Londen, A.M. “The Effect of Chloride
Method C.1 computes the concentration (E) of the chloride Contamination on the Corrosion of Steel Surfaces:
ion, whereas Method C.2 computes the concentration (E1) A Literature Review,” Protective Coatings Europe
of the chloride compound. Assuming that the salt is sodium (PCE), February 1997.
chloride, and knowing the formula weight of sodium chloride Appleman, B.R., Boocock, S.K., Weaver, R.E.F., and Soltz,
to be 58.5 and the atomic weight of the chloride ion to be G.C. “Effect of Surface Contaminants on Coating Life,”
35.5, these two concentrations are related by: SSPC #91-07, Pittsburgh, PA: SSPC 1991.
Appleman, B. R. “Advances in Technology and Standards
concentration of concentration formula wt. of NaCl
sodium chloride
= of chloride ion • atomic wt. of CI- ion for Mitigating the Effects of Soluble Salts,” Journal of
Protective Coatings and Linings (JPCL), Vol. 19, No.
5, May 2002, pp. 42-47.
Using the values from the numerical examples above, Boocock, S. K. “SSPC Research on Performance Testing
the similarity between methods C1 and C2 can be demon- of Abrasives and Salt Retrieval Techniques,” JPCL,
strated. Vol.-11, No. 3, March 1994, pp. 28-44.
Chong, S-L., Yao,Y. and Rozario, M, “Intra-laboratory
58.5 Assessment of Commercial Test Kits for Quantifying
E1 = (3.4) •
35.5 = 5.6 Chloride on Steel Surfaces,” JPCL, Vol. 20, No. 8,
August 2003, pp. 43-60.
Flores, S., Simancas, J., Morcillo, M. “Methods for Sampling
APPENDIX D: Discussion and Sources on and Analyzing Soluble Salts on Steel Surfaces: A Com-
Extraction Efficiency prehensive Study,” JPCL, March 1994, pp. 76-83.
Forsgren, A., Applegren, C. “Comparison of Chloride
Extraction efficiency is defined as the quantity of salt re- Levels Remaining on the Steel Surface After Various
trieved from the surface as a percentage of the total amount Pretreatments,” in Assessing the Future of Coating

9
SSPC-Guide 15
June 1, 2005

Work: Proceedings from PCE 2000, Genoa, Italy,

March 8-10, 2000. Pittsburgh, PA: Technology Pub-
lishing Company, 2000.
Mitschke, Howard “Effects of Chloride Contamination on
Performance of Tank and Vessel Linings,” in SSPC:
Proceedings of the SSPC 2000 Seminars, SSPC
#00-15. SSPC: Pittsburgh PA, 2000.
Richards, Dennis M. “Effects of Chloride Contamination
of Abrasives on the Performance of Long Life Coat-
ings for Steel,” in The Proceedings of the Seminars:
Application & Inspection of Protective and Marine
Coatings, Coatings for Asia 99, Singapore, August
30 through September 1, 1999, SSPC: Pittsburgh,
PA, 1991.
Soltz, G.C. “The Effects of Substrate Contaminants on the
Life of Epoxy Coatings Submerged in Seawater.” San
Diego, CA: National Shipbuilding Research Program
Report, Task 3-84-2. March 1991.
Steinsmo, Unni, Axelsen, Sten B. “Assessment of Salt
Contamination and Determination of Its Effect on
Coating Performance,” in Achieving Cost Effective-
ness in Coatings Work. The Proceedings of the PCE
98 Conference and Exhibition,The Hague, The Neth-
erlands, April 1-3, 1998. Pittsburgh, PA: Technology
Publishing Company, 1998

APPENDIX E: Sources of Testing Equipment

and Supplies
Information on suppliers of testing and analytical equip-
ment may be found in the Journal of Protective Coatings and
Linings Buyer’s Guide. The following web sites also provide
contact information and links to manufacturers of coating testing
equipment and supplies. http://www.sspc.org/links/equip.html;
http://www.paintsquare.com/bg/buying_guide_equip.cfm.

Readers may also search the World Wide Web using

keywords such as analytical testing equipment, Bresle, chlo-
ride ion, coating test kit, conductivity, ferrous ion, ion detection
tube, inspection, laboratory testing supplies, nitrate ion, paint
testing equipment, and sulfate ion.

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