The scanning Kelvin probe (SKP) measures the changes in contact potential difference between a reference material and a sample in non-contact mode.
SKP is suitable to investigate delamination phenomena in small areas (resolution: < 100 µm) or study the effect of surface treatment such as corrosion inhibitors or temporary corrosion protection. It measures local cathodic and anodic activity and allows for high resolution measurements even below paint systems. It is able to assess atmospheric corrosion under extremely thin electrolyte films.