NaCl + acetic acid
A solution of sodium chloride and acetic acid (NaCl, CH₃COOH) saturated with H₂S at temperature and ambient pressure.
Overview
Detect hydrogen-induced cracking in H₂S service
HIC occurs when atomic hydrogen, absorbed via aqueous sulfide corrosion, diffuses into carbon or low-alloy steels and forms molecular hydrogen that builds internal pressure and initiates cracks. The NACE TM0284 / TM0103 method evaluates resistance by calculating crack sensitivity, crack length, and crack thickness ratios from optical examination of test pieces—supporting durability and safety in H₂S-rich environments.
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited practices and reporting.
Media
Test solutions
Synthetic seawater
A solution of synthetic seawater saturated with H₂S at ambient temperature and pressure.
Setup
Reagents
- Inert gas for purging.
- Mixture of H₂S and CO₂ with H₂S content sufficient to produce the specified H₂S partial pressure.
- NaCl and CH₃COONa.
- HCl or NaOH to achieve the specified pH.
- Distilled or deionized water.
Benefits
Why this test matters
Material suitability
Identifies susceptibility to HIC / SOHIC for components in H₂S-rich environments.
Safety & durability
Supports prevention of failures in pipelines, pressure vessels, and structural plates.
Get in touch
Talk to an expert
Send alloy grade, thickness, and target environment. We’ll confirm the HIC/SOHIC plan, endpoints, and reporting.