What is critical about the use of gloves when handling corrosion coupons?

Using gloves when handling corrosion coupons is crucial because it helps to prevent contamination. Corrosion coupons are specifically designed to assess the rate of corrosion in various environments, and any foreign substances or oils from our hands can interfere with the accuracy of the results. Contamination can alter the electrochemical properties of the coupon, leading to misleading data about the corrosion rate and the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors or treatments being tested.

The integrity of the samples must be maintained to ensure that the results from tests are valid and reflective of the actual conditions being monitored. By wearing gloves, operators minimize the risk of adding contaminants that could affect the outcome of corrosion assessments. This practice is fundamental in any laboratory or industrial setting where precision and accuracy are paramount.