A system and method for generating and collecting data to detect and evaluate corrosion in a conductive metal beneath a protective coating is disclosed. A semi-integrated electrode having a reference electrode and a counter electrode is connected to a portable hand held device, such as a portable potentiostat generator. That device is also connected electrically to the metal being evaluated with the metal forming a working electrode. The counter electrode is physically and electrically separate from the metal, and a signal or voltage potential is provided therebetween through an electrolyte solution, such as sea water. The system and method is practiced without need for a container for an electrolyte solution. Data are collected and displayed indicating corrosion.