5.1 This test method was originally developed for research and development purposes; however, it is referenced, in specific material specifications, as applicable for evaluating production material (refer to Section 14 on Precision and Bias).

5.2 Use of this test method provides a useful prediction of the exfoliation corrosion behavior of these alloys in various types of outdoor service, especially in marine and industrial environments.⁵ The test solution is very corrosive and represents the more severe types of environmental service, excluding, of course, unusual chemicals not likely to be encountered in natural environments.

5.3 The exfoliation ratings were arbitrarily chosen to illustrate a wide range in resistance to exfoliation in this test. However, it remains to be determined whether correlations can be established between EXCO test ratings and realistic service conditions for a given alloy. It is an ongoing activity of the Task Group on Exfoliation Corrosion of Aluminum Alloys (G01.05.02.08) to maintain outdoor exposure tests for this purpose. For example, it has been reported⁶ that samples of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys rated EA or P in a 48-h EXCO test did not develop more than a slight amount of incipient exfoliation (EA) during six- to nine-year exposures to seacoast atmospheres, whereas, ED rated materials in most cases developed severe exfoliation within a year in the seacoast atmosphere. It is anticipated that additional comparisons will become available as the outdoor tests are extended.