Corrosion testing in artificial atmospheres, the so-called salt spray tests, are carried out as serial tests on nitrocarburized components. In this procedure, a five percent solution of sodium chloride is sprayed in a controlled atmosphere. Changes in appearance of the specimen are assessed throughout the duration of the test.

Both duration and assessment criteria must be agreed upon with the respective customer. The results are not transferable to the corrosion resistance of the components in practice. This procedure is a comparative test for very similar surface properties.