GMW GMW16600 PDF

This standard is an aggressive characterization of the susceptibility of a plastic component to Stress Corrosion Cracking. It accomplishes this by exposing it to different artificial environments with the presence of chlorides. It requires that an appropriate stress level be imparted on the component. The tests are not a direct comparison to field exposure and can only indicate whether the component is susceptible to attack at the stress level that was induced on it.

The two chlorides identified in this standard are calcium chloride and zinc chloride. Calcium Chloride is a common chemical used in de-icing solutions and gravel road dust control. Zinc Chloride only occurs from a reaction of zinc and other chlorides (e.g., sodium or calcium).

It is not recommended to directly fasten any plastic component which is susceptible to chloride stress corrosion cracking directly to a zinc surface.