MIL-HDBK-1110
Section 11:
ANALYSIS OF PAINT FAILURES
11.1
Definition. Organic coatings deteriorate and fail with
time. Failure analysis does not concern itself with this type of
deterioration. It is defined as an investigation to determine
the cause or causes of premature deterioration of coatings or
coating systems. It is obvious, however, that failure analyses
are often also directed at obtaining additional information than
that stated in the above definition. Thus, the failure analyst
may also wish to determine the extent of the damage, whether all
requirements of a specification of a contract or work order had
been met, who might be responsible for the failure and thus be
liable for repairs, or what is the best remedial action to
correct the existing condition.
11.2
Documentation of Findings. Measurements, photographs,
specimens, and other observations made at the job-site or later
in the laboratory should be firmly documented with dates,
locations, etc., because they may at a later time become legal
evidence. Personnel conducting failure analyses should routinely
follow the procedures necessary for such documentation to prepare
for any eventuality.
11.3
Scope of Failure Analysis. Paint failure analysis can
be conducted by anyone with a basic understanding of coatings.
However, they are best conducted by someone specially trained for
the work. This is particularly true if the investigation becomes
part of a dispute, since credibility of the analyst may be a
determining factor in a dispute. In some instances, an analysis
need not be extensive, but care must be taken not to make
important conclusions based on superficial observations. A
complete paint failure analysis includes most or all of the
following actions:
a)
Review of specification including modifications
b)
Review of supplier's data
c)
Review of inspector's daily reports
d)
Thoroughly documented on-site inspection
e)
Laboratory analysis of retained and/or field
samples
f)
Analysis of data
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