Reasons for Inhibitor Testing

Inhibitors may be tested in many ways or for different reasons, but basically, the objective is to determine the effectiveness of a chemical additive in slowing down the overall corrosion process. Evaluation of new additives is necessary as chemicals are developed for new systems or for existing applications. Then, when an inhibitor looks promising or is ready for field use, it is necessary to judge its performance under field conditions. 

Associated with the effectiveness of an inhibitor, however, are other inherent properties necessary to carry it to the metal surface where it does its joh. These properties often directly contrary to properties considered ideal for corrosion inhibitors, also must be included in an evaluation. 

It is the purpose of this section to describe the variables that affect the properties and performance of an inhibitor, and the tools and techniques necessary to measure them, both in the relatively controllable conditions of a laboratory and in the practical, usually more difficult conditions in the field. 

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