Dye penetrant testing examines the surface of an item (non

destructively) for surface-breaking flaws, such as cracks.  A

liquid penetrant is applied to the surface and left to soak.  The
liquid is drawn into any cracks via capillary action.  The liquid is
typically brightly colored or a fluorescent (under UV light) dye. 
After the soak time has expired, the excess penetrant is wiped
from off and a developer is applied.  The developer is usually a
dry white powder (for example chalk powder) suspension that is
spayed on the component.  The developer is drawn out of the
crack by reverse capillary action, resulting in a colored indication
on the surface that is broader than the actual flaw, and
therefore, much more visible. This technique can be used to
detect surface flaws on essentially any non-porous material. 
Typical applications include:
• Grinding cracks
Heat zone cracks
Poor weld penetrations
Heat treatment cracks
Fatigue cracks
Inclusions
• Laminations
Micro shrinkage
Hot tears
cold shuts
Stress corrosion cracks
Intergranular corrosion
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