Patent ID: 6611151
Filing Date: 2003-08-26
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
Coating assessment apparatus suitable for on-site use in association with a metal substrate and with electrochemical noise instrumentation including an ammeter and a voltmeter, said apparatus comprising:a receptacle for containing electrolyte and for being coupled with said metal substrate whereby said electrolyte contacts a coated portion of said metal substrate; a witness electrode for contacting said electrolyte, said witness electrode being made of a bare single metal material; a reference electrode for contacting said electrolyte; a first lead means for connecting an uncoated portion of said metal substrate to said ammeter and to said voltmeter; a second lead means for directly connecting, sans any intermediary electronic element, said witness electrode to said ammeter, said ammeter measuring the current flow between said witness electrode and said metal substrate, said current flow being approximately unimpeded between said witness electrode and said ammeter; and a third lead means for connecting said reference electrode to said voltmeter, said voltmeter measuring the potential between said reference electrode and the combination of said witness electrode and said metal substrate.