ASTM D6676 Cathodic Disbondment Testing for Exterior Pipeline Coatings
ASTM D6676/D6676M outlines an approach for comparing the features of coating systems applied to the outside of a steel pipe for the purpose of measuring corrosion resistance; preventing or reducing corrosion in undersea cables. ASTM D6676/D6676M is used when high temperatures affect external coatings.

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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D6676/D6676M is a standard test method for the cathodic disbondment of dielectric pipeline coatings. This test method provides a reference point by ensuring that all dielectric coatings will, to some degree, debond when exposed to cathodic protection.
The test measures the electric current flow as a relative indicator of the coating area requiring protection against corrosion. ASTM D6676/D6676M enables comparison of different coating systems based on their resistance to disbondment.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D6676/D6676M evaluates:
- Cathodic disbondment resistance of pipeline coatings
- Comparative performance of coating systems
- Size of the disbonded area from artificial holidays
- Electrical current flow during polarization
- Coating integrity under corrosive conditions
The method applies to dielectric coatings used for pipeline protection.
Applications
- Pipeline coating qualification
- Corrosion protection assessment
- Oil and gas pipeline testing
- Quality control of protective coatings
- Coating system comparison
- Research and development
- Regulatory compliance testing
Benefits
- Provides standardized baseline data
- Enables coating performance comparison
- Supports coating selection decisions
- Improves corrosion protection strategies
- Enhances pipeline reliability
- Facilitates quality assurance
Test Process
Specimen Preparation & Thickness Measurement
Coated pipe sections are selected, sealed, and the coating thickness is measured.
1Electrical & Electrolyte Setup
The specimen is connected to the power supply, and the test vessel is filled with electrolyte; pH is recorded.
2Test Execution & Monitoring
The solution is circulated, an electrical current is applied, and measurements are recorded daily.
3Data Collection
Polarization behaviour and current flow are observed and documented.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable Materials | Dielectric pipeline coatings |
| Specimen Type | Coated pipe sections |
| Test Medium | Electrolyte solution |
| Output Units | mm, mm² |
| Measured Outputs | Disbonded area, ECD |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Power supply
- Electrolytic test vessel
- pH meter
- Thickness gauge
- Electrical measuring instruments
- Circulation bath system
- Data acquisition tools
Results and Deliverables
- Equivalent circle diameter (ECD) values
- Disbonded area measurements
- Daily electrical readings
- Coating performance comparison
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