exposures of metals and alloys to surface sea water such that meaningful comparisons may be made for different locations. This International Standard applies to exposure areas from above water level which are wet for a significant period (splash and tidal zones) down to a depth at which the composition of the sea water is similar to that at the surface. 1.2 This practice gives guidance on procedures for the evaluation of the effects of sea water on metals and alloys. 1.3 Because of the variability and complexity of sea water, exposures over a minimum period of one year are considered necessary to minimize the influence of these variable factors.