What is the most commonly used method for testing soluble salts contamination on surfaces?

The Bresle Patch method is the most commonly used technique for testing soluble salts on surfaces because it provides a practical and reliable way to assess surface contamination before coating application. This method involves placing a small, adhesive patch on the surface to be tested, which generates a small volume of water by osmotic action. After a specified period, the patch is removed, and the water collected contains any soluble salts present on the surface.

This method is widely favored for several reasons: it is relatively easy to use in the field, it allows for quick and real-time testing, and it provides quantitative results that can be compared against established thresholds for cleanliness. Additionally, the Bresle Patch method is recognized in various industry standards, making it an accepted choice for assessing surface conditions in preparation for coating applications.

Other methods, while they may also be effective, tend to be less practical or not as standardized for widespread field use. For instance, potassium ferricyanide tests are more laboratory-focused and typically used for identifying ferrous ions rather than quantifying soluble salts. Soluble salt meters, while useful, can require calibration and maintenance, which may not make them as accessible as the Bresle Patch method for routine field inspections. The Sleeve Test is less common and often used