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Plating evaluations are performed to assess primarily their thickness and adhesion. Typically, a transverse cross-section of the plated material of interest is cut and mounted. The thickness is then measured with an optical microscope or a scanning electron microscope.
The corrosion behavior of the plated material can be assessed by immersion in the environment of interest, thus simulating the conditions in-service. Plating studies may also require surface analysis, chemical analysis, especially when contaminants are present and mechanical tests. This methodology is extensive assessment of pre-treatment to other forms of surface modification, such as case hardening, and high temperature oxidation.
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