Learning Hub
Glossary
Salt Spray Testing
This laboratory procedure is designed to quickly assess how well fasteners, materials, or their protective finishes withstand corrosion. Within a sealed chamber, these fasteners are exposed to a controlled, corrosive environment. A fine mist or a fog of salt water (typically a 5% sodium chloride solution) is continuously sprayed onto the items at a consistent temperature. This process mimics and accelerates the effects of harsh environmental conditions, allowing manufacturers to determine how resistant a fastener or its protective finish is to rusting and other forms of deterioration over time. The results from these tests are key for quality control, choosing the right materials, and comparing how different protective coatings perform.