Abstract: The present invention relates to using a rectifier, a groundbed consisting of four (4) copper rods, power supply, three (3) copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrodes, a data logger for detecting and identifying buried lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) service pipes by their electrochemical potentials. More specifically, the present invention relates to using the electrochemical potentials of lead (Pb) versus copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrode (?0.500 volts) and also using the electrochemical potentials of copper versus copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrode (?0.200 volts) which is utilized under field (actual, environmental or in situ) conditions in detecting and differentiating buried lead (Pb) service pipes and buried copper pipes which are sometimes attached to the same water meter and cast iron water supply main.

Abstract: The present invention relates to using a rectifier, a groundbed consisting of four (4) copper rods, power supply, three (3) copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrodes, a data logger for detecting and identifying buried lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) service pipes by their electrochemical potentials. More specifically, the present invention relates to using the electrochemical potentials of lead (Pb) versus copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrode (?0.500 volts) and also using the electrochemical potentials of copper versus copper/copper sulfate (Cu/CuSO4) reference electrode (?0.200 volts) which is utilized under field (actual, environmental or in situ) conditions in detecting and differentiating buried lead (Pb) service pipes and buried copper pipes which are sometimes attached to the same water meter and cast iron water supply main.

Abstract: A portable and nondestructive adhesive tape corrosion sensor which is utilized under actual field or laboratory conditions in detecting coating and substrate degradation using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) of coated or uncoated metal structures has been developed. The invention allows for broad applicability, flexibility in utilizing the sensor in various environments without structural compromise and the ability to inspect and evaluate corrosion of the actual structure, regardless of the size, shape, composition, or orientation of the structure. The electrodes may be removed once a measurement is made or remain in the original fixed position so that subsequent measurements may be made with the same electrode. The nondestructive sensor apparatus is comprised of a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape that consists of a conductive film or foil and conductive adhesive overlapping another pressure-sensitive adhesive tape that consists of a conductive film or foil and non-conductive adhesive.

Abstract: A hand-held or permanently attached corrosion sensor is described that uses electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS, also known as AC impedance) to detect coating and structural degradation caused by excessive moisture uptake of coated and uncoated composite laminations or honeycomb or adhesively bonded structures. The hand-held sensor is pressed against the surface of the structure or specimen to be inspected. Alternatively, the sensor electrode may be permanently or temporarily attached. An EIS spectrum can then be obtained in the field or under arbitrary conditions and the degree of moisture uptake or coating or material degradation can be determined from the resultant spectrum. There are no restrictions on the configuration of the structure being inspected. The area of detection is controlled by controlling the extent and degree of wetness of the surface. A dry surface will provide a localized measurement; a wet surface will allow inspection of the wetted area.

Abstract: A hand-held and flexible corrosion sensor is described that uses electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS, also known as AC impedance) to detect coating degradation and corrosion of coated and uncoated metals. The hand-held and flexible corrosion sensor is pressed against the surface of the structure of specimen to be inspected, and may be either straight in structural configuration in the form of a pen or bent in a curved or angled manner to achieve better access to the structure. An EIS spectrum can than be obtained in the field or under arbitrary conditions and the degree of coating or material degradation can be determined from the resultant spectrum. There are no restrictions on the configuration of the structure being inspected. The area of detection is controlled by moderating the extent and degree of wetness of the surface. A dry surface will provide a localized measurement; a wet surface will allow inspection of the wetted area.

Abstract: A method for the early detection of electrochemical corrosion and coating degradation utilizing an inexpensive, in situ electrochemical metallic sensor for sensing coating and material degradation, particularly for materials such as aluminum 2024-T3, 7075, 6061, cold rolled steel samples, and coated metal structures such as automobiles, bridges, aircraft, and ships has been developed. The sensor utilizes AC Impedance or Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to acquire a precise, low-frequency impedance signature and is comprised of conductive ink deposited on a coating in the shape of the outline of a quadrilateral or other configuration. The resulting apparatus is comprised of a coated, metallic coupon used as a sensor, while a metallic grid electrode is deposited onto the steel coupon, thereby eliminating the need for a remote or counter electrode (i.e., reduction from a traditional, three-electrode system to a two-electrode system).