This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D3359 − 23

Standard Test Methods for

Rating Adhesion by Tape Test1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3359; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope 1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-

1.1 These test methods cover procedures for assessing the dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
adhesion of relatively ductile coating films to metallic sub- ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
strates by applying and removing pressure-sensitive tape over Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
cuts made in the film. mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.2 Test Method A is primarily intended to rate the adhesion
of coatings and coating systems greater than 125 µm (5 mils) in 2. Referenced Documents
total thickness, while Test Method B is primarily intended to
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
rate the adhesion of coatings and coating systems less than
D609 Practice for Preparation of Cold-Rolled Steel Panels
125 µm (5 mils) in total thickness. Test Method B is not
for Testing Paint, Varnish, Conversion Coatings, and
considered suitable for films thicker than 125 µm (5 mils)
Related Coating Products
unless wider spaced cuts are employed and there is an explicit
D7091 Practice for Nondestructive Measurement of Dry
agreement between the purchaser and seller. If the thickness of
Film Thickness of Nonmagnetic Coatings Applied to
the coating or coating system has not been predetermined,
Ferrous Metals and Nonmagnetic, Nonconductive Coat-
employ the use of a standard such as Practice D7091 or other
ings Applied to Non-Ferrous Metals
appropriate standard agreed upon by interested parties prior to
D823 Practices for Producing Films of Uniform Thickness
proceeding.
of Paint, Coatings and Related Products on Test Panels
1.3 These test methods are used to evaluate whether the D1730 Practices for Preparation of Aluminum and
adhesion of a coating to a substrate is adequate for the user’s Aluminum-Alloy Surfaces for Painting
application. They do not distinguish between higher levels of D2092 Guide for Preparation of Zinc-Coated (Galvanized)
adhesion for which more sophisticated methods of measure- Steel Surfaces for Painting (Withdrawn 2008)3
ment are required. D2370 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Organic Coat-
1.4 This test method is similar in content (but not techni- ings
cally equivalent) to ISO 2409. D3330/D3330M Test Method for Peel Adhesion of Pressure-
Sensitive Tape
1.5 In multicoat systems adhesion failure may occur be-
D3924 Specification for Standard Environment for Condi-
tween coats so that the adhesion of the coating system to the
tioning and Testing Paint, Varnish, Lacquer, and Related
substrate is not determined.
Materials
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the D4060 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Organic
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information Coatings by the Taber Abraser
only. 2.2 Other Standards:
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the ISO 2409 Paint and Varnishes — Cross-cut test4
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the PSTC 101 International Standard for Peel Adhesion of
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications and are the direct Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
responsibility of Subcommittee D01.23 on Physical Properties of Applied Paint the ASTM website.
3
Films. The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.ast-
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2023. Published March 2023. Originally m.org.
4
approved in 1974. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as D3359 – 22. DOI: Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/D3359-23. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 D3359 − 23
Pressure Sensitive Tape5 4.2.1 Subject to agreement between the purchaser and the
seller, Test Method B can be used for films thicker than 125 µm
3. Terminology (5 mils) if wider spaced cuts are employed.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 adhesion, n—the molecular attraction and mechanical 5. Significance and Use
bonds between a coating and its substrate. 5.1 In order for a coating is to fulfill its function of
3.1.2 batch, n—as it pertains to tape, a unique production protecting or decorating a substrate, the coating must remain
run during manufacturing. adhered to the substrate. Because the substrate and its surface
preparation (or lack thereof) have a drastic effect on the
3.1.3 blemish, n—an obvious surface flaw, such as cracking
adhesion of coatings, a method to evaluate adhesion of a
or discoloration of the coating.
coating to different substrates or surface treatments, or of
3.1.4 environmental conditions, n—the characteristics of the different coatings to the same substrate, is of considerable
immediate surroundings during the tests, such as temperature, usefulness in the industry.
and relative humidity.
5.2 This test method is limited to evaluating lower levels of
3.1.5 immersion conditions, n—the characteristics of the adhesion (see 1.3). The intra- and inter-laboratory precision of
fluid to which the test specimen was exposed, such as type of this test method is similar to other test methods for coated
fluid, temperature of fluid and duration of immersion. substrates (for example, Test Method D2370 and Test Method
3.1.6 lap, n—one complete turn of the tape on a roll; the D4060), and is insensitive to all but large differences in
outer exposed layer of tape. adhesion. Limiting the range of rankings from 0 to 5 reflects
3.1.7 lattice pattern, n—one series of parallel lines inter- the inability of this test method to make fine distinctions
sected by another set of parallel lines that are at 90° to and between levels of adhesion. Users shall not use intermediate
centered on the first set. values for ranking adhesion tests within this method.
3.1.8 mean, n—the classification rating that is obtained by 5.3 Extremes in temperatures or relative humidity may
adding together the digits of the classification ratings of the affect the adhesion of the tape or the coating.
tests performed and dividing by the number of tests, frequently 5.4 A given tape may not adhere equally well to different
rounded to the nearest whole number classification rating. coatings due to several factors, including differences in coating
3.1.9 pressure-sensitive tape, n—tape with an adhesive that composition and topology. As such, no single tape is likely to
requires some degree of pressure, and only pressure, to be suitable for testing all coatings. Furthermore, these test
adequately bond to a surface. methods do not give an absolute value for the force required for
3.1.10 range, n—the span of classification ratings for a set bond rupture, but serves only as an indicator that some
of tests, from minimum classification rating to maximum minimum value for bond strength was met or exceeded (1, 2).6
classification rating. 5.5 Operators performing these test methods must be trained
3.1.11 solvent, n—a liquid agent capable of dissolving or and practiced in order to obtain consistent results. The accuracy
dispersing contaminants from the surface of the coating or film. and precision of the test result obtained by using these methods
3.1.12 substrate, n—the structural foundation beneath the depends largely upon the skill of the operator and the opera-
coating or film being tested. tor’s ability to perform the test in a consistent manner. Key
steps that directly reflect the importance of operator skill
3.1.13 template, n—a thin, rigid plate containing evenly include the angle and rate of tape removal and the visual
distributed, parallel slits for use as a guide in generating the assessment of the tested sample. It is not unexpected that
lattice pattern when accompanied by a single-blade cutting different operators might obtain different results (1, 2).
tool.
5.6 The standard requires that the free end of the tape be
3.1.14 test specimen, n—the object whose coatings adhesion removed rapidly at as close to a 180° angle as possible. When
is of interest. the peel angle and rate vary, the force required to remove the
4. Summary of Test Methods tape can change dramatically due to the rheological properties
of the backing and adhesive. Variation in pull rate and peel
4.1 Test Method A—An X-cut is made through the film to angle can effect large differences in test values and must be
the substrate, pressure-sensitive tape is applied over the cut and minimized to assure reproducibility (3).
then removed, and adhesion is assessed qualitatively on a 0 to NOTE 1—These test methods have been reported being used to measure
5 scale. adhesion of organic coatings on non-metallic substrates (for example,
wood and plastic), although related precision and bias data is lacking. If
4.2 Test Method B—A lattice pattern with either six or
testing coatings on non-metallic substrates, either Test Method A or Test
eleven cuts in each direction is made through the film to the Method B may be more appropriate and the method employed should be
substrate, pressure-sensitive tape is applied over the lattice discussed by interested parties. Issues with plastic substrates are noted in
pattern and then removed, and adhesion is assessed qualita- Appendix X1. A similar test method, ISO 2409, permits tests on
tively on a 0 to 5 scale. non-metallic substrates (for example, wood and plaster). Precision and

5 6
Available from the Pressure Sensitive Tape Council (PSTC), 1833 Centre Point The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of
Circle, Suite 123, Naperville, IL 60563, http://www.pstc.org. this test method.

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 D3359 − 23
bias data on the latter is lacking. Test Method D3359 was developed with solvent which will not harm the integrity of the coating. Then
metal as the substrate and, in the absence of supporting precision and bias dry or prepare the surface, or both, as agreed upon between the
data, is so limited. purchaser and the seller.
8.2 Make two cuts in the film each about 40 mm (1.5 in.)
TEST METHOD A—X-CUT TAPE TEST long that intersect near their middle with a smaller angle of
between 30° and 45°. When making the incisions, use the
6. Apparatus and Materials straightedge and cut through the coating to the substrate in one
6.1 Cutting Tool—Sharp razor blade, scalpel, knife or other steady motion.
fine-edged cutting device. The cutting edges shall be in good 8.3 Inspect the incisions for reflection of light from the
condition, preferably new or newly sharpened. metal substrate to establish that the coating film has been
6.2 Cutting Guide—Steel or other hard metal straightedge to penetrated. If the substrate has not been reached make another
ensure straight cuts. X in a different location. Do not attempt to deepen a previous
cut as this may affect adhesion along the incision.
6.3 Tape—25 mm (1.0 in.) wide transparent or semitrans-
parent pressure-sensitive tape with an adhesive peel strength 8.4 At each day of testing, before initiation of testing,
between 6.34 N/cm (58 oz/in.) and 7.00 N/cm (64 oz/in.), as remove two complete laps of tape from the roll and discard.
tested in accordance with Test Method D3330/D3330M, Test Remove an additional length at a steady (that is, not jerked)
Method A, (equivalent to PSTC 101) and utilizing a 90 second rate and cut a piece about 75 mm (3 in.) long.
dwell time on a standard steel panel. 8.5 Place the center of the tape at the intersection of the cuts
6.3.1 Other tapes may be used by agreement between the with the tape running in the same direction as the smaller
parties involved. angles. Smooth the tape into place by finger in the area of the
6.3.2 Due to variability in adhesion strength from batch-to- incisions taking care not to entrap air under the tape. Rub
batch and changes in adhesion properties of tapes over time, firmly over the surface of the tape with the pressure application
tape from the same batch shall be used when tests are to be run device until the color is uniform in appearance. This indicates
in different laboratories. When use of the same batch is not good, uniform contact between the tape’s adhesive and the
followed the test method shall be used only for ranking a series coating surface.
of test coatings. Refer to X1.5 for additional information.
8.6 Within 90 s 6 30 s of application, remove the tape by
6.4 Pressure Application Device—Although other devices seizing the free end and pulling it off rapidly (not jerked) back
may suffice, a rubber eraser or rubber roller is commonly used upon itself at as close to an angle of 180° as possible.
to ensure good and uniform wetting of the coating with the
8.7 Inspect the X-cut area for removal of coating from the
adhesive of the tape.
substrate or previous coating and rate the adhesion in accor-
6.5 Illumination—A light source is helpful in determining dance with the following scale, illustrated in Fig. 1:
whether the cuts have been made through the film to the 5A No peeling or removal,
substrate. 4A Trace peeling or removal along incisions or at their intersection,
3A Jagged removal along incisions up to 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.) on either side,
2A Jagged removal along most of incisions up to 3.2 mm (1⁄8 in.) on either
7. Test Specimens side,
7.1 When this test method is used in the field, the specimen 1A Removal from most of the area of the X under the tape, and
0A Removal beyond the area of the X.
is the coated structure or article on which the adhesion is to be
evaluated. 8.8 Repeat the test in two other locations on the test surface.
For large structures make sufficient tests to ensure that the
7.2 For laboratory use apply the materials to be tested to adhesion evaluation is representative of the whole surface.
panels of the composition and surface conditions on which it is
desired to determine the adhesion. 8.9 After making several cuts examine the cutting edge and,
if necessary, remove any flat spots or wire-edge by abrading
NOTE 2—Applicable test panel description and surface preparation lightly on a fine oil stone before using again. Discard cutting
methods are given in Practice D609 and Practices D1730 and D2092.
NOTE 3—Coatings should be applied in accordance with Practice D823,
tools that develop nicks or other defects that tear the film.
or as agreed upon between the purchaser and the seller. 9. Report
NOTE 4—If desired or specified, the coated test panels may be subjected
to a preliminary exposure such as water immersion, salt spray, or high 9.1 Report the substrate employed, the type of coating and
humidity before conducting the tape test. The conditions and time of the method of cure, if known.
exposure will be governed by ultimate coating use or shall be agreed upon
between the purchaser and seller. 9.2 Report the number of tests, their mean and range.
9.3 Report the adhesion strength of the pressure-sensitive
8. Procedure tape determined in accordance with Test Method D3330/
8.1 Select an area free of blemishes and minor surface D3330M, Test Method A, (equivalent to PSTC 101) and
imperfections. The area chosen for testing shall be clean and utilizing a 90 second dwell time on a standard steel panel.
dry. 9.3.1 Where the adhesion strength of the tape has not been
8.1.1 For specimens which have been immersed: After determined, report the specific product name of the tape used,
immersion, clean and wipe the surface with an appropriate the manufacturer and the lot number, if available.

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 D3359 − 23
standard deviations, the following criteria should be used for
judging the acceptability of results at the 95 % confidence
level:
10.1.1 Repeatability—Provided adhesion is uniform over a
large surface, results obtained by the same operator should be
considered suspect if they differ by more than 1 rating unit for
two measurements.
10.1.2 Reproducibility—Two results, each the mean of
triplicates, obtained by different operators should be consid-
ered suspect if they differ by more than 1.5 rating units.
10.2 Bias cannot be established for these test methods.

TEST METHOD B—CROSS-CUT TAPE TEST

11. Apparatus and Materials

11.1 Cutting Tool 8—Sharp razor blade, scalpel, knife or
other cutting device having a cutting edge angle between 15°
and 30° that will make either a single cut or several cuts at
once. The cutting edge shall be in good condition, preferably
new or newly sharpened.
11.2 Cutting Guide—If cuts are made manually (as opposed
to a mechanical apparatus) a steel or other hard metal straight-
edge or template to ensure straight cuts.
11.3 Rule—Tempered steel rule graduated in 0.5 mm for
measuring individual cuts.
11.4 Tape, as described in 6.3.
11.5 Pressure Application Device, as described in 6.4.
11.6 Illumination, as described in 6.5.
11.7 Magnifying Glass—An illuminated magnifier to be
used while making individual cuts and examining the test area.
FIG. 1 Classification of Adhesion Test Results for Test Method A
12. Test Specimens
12.1 Test specimens shall be as described in Section 7. It
9.4 Report an estimate of the interface at which the coating should be noted, however, that multitip cutters9 provide good
failure occurred as indicated by visible peeling or removal of results only on test areas sufficiently plane that all cutting edges
the coating. For example, between the first coat and substrate, contact the substrate to the same degree. Check for flatness
between the first and second coats, etc. with a straight edge such as that of the tempered steel rule
9.5 For field tests, report the type of coating (where known), (11.3).
the structure or article tested, the location and the environmen-
tal conditions at the time of testing. 13. Procedure
9.6 If the test is performed after immersion, report immer- 13.1 Where required or when agreed upon, subject the
sion conditions, time between immersion and testing, and specimens to a preliminary test before conducting the tape test
method of sample preparation. (see Note 4). After drying or testing the coating, conduct the
tape test at room temperature as defined in Specification
10. Precision and Bias7 D3924, unless D3924 standard temperature is required or
10.1 In an interlaboratory study of this test method in which agreed.
operators in six laboratories made one adhesion measurement
on three panels each of three coatings covering a wide range of
adhesion, the within-laboratories standard deviation was found 8
Multiblade cutters are available from a few sources that specialize in testing
to be 0.33 and the between-laboratories 0.44. Based on these equipment for the paint industry.
9
The sole source of supply of the multitip cutter for coated pipe surfaces known
to the committee at this time is Paul N. Gardner Co., 316 NE First St., Pompano
Beach, FL 33060. If you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this
7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may information to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D01-1008. Contact ASTM Customer careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible technical committee,1 which
Service at [email protected]. you may attend.

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 D3359 − 23
13.1.1 For specimens which have been immersed: After
immersion, clean and wipe the surface with an appropriate
solvent which will not harm the integrity of the coating. Then
dry or prepare the surface, or both, as agreed upon between the
purchaser and the seller.
13.2 Select an area free of blemishes and minor surface
imperfections, place on a firm base, and under the illuminated
magnifier, make parallel cuts as follows:
13.2.1 For coatings having a dry film thickness up to and
including 50 µm (2 mils) space the cuts 1 mm apart and make
eleven cuts unless otherwise agreed upon.
13.2.2 For coatings having a dry film thickness between 50
µm (2 mils) and 125 µm (5 mils), space the cuts 2 mm apart and
make six cuts. For films thicker than 125 µm (5 mils), it is
generally recommended to use Test Method A. Subject to
agreement between the purchaser and the seller, Test Method B
can be used for films thicker than 125 µm (5 mils) if wider
spaced cuts are employed.10
13.2.3 Make all cuts about 20 mm (3⁄4 in.) long. Cut through
the film to the substrate in one steady motion using just
sufficient pressure on the cutting tool to have the cutting edge
reach the substrate. When making successive single cuts with
the aid of a guide, place the guide on the uncut area.
13.3 After making the required cuts brush the film lightly
with a soft brush or tissue to remove any detached flakes or
ribbons of coatings.
13.4 Examine the cutting edge and, if necessary, remove
any flat spots or wire-edge by abrading lightly on a fine oil
stone. Make the additional number of cuts at 90° to and
centered on the original cuts.
13.5 Brush the area as before and inspect the incisions for
reflection of light from the substrate. If the metal has not been
FIG. 2 Classification of Adhesion Test Results for Test Method B
reached make another grid in a different location.
13.6 At each day of testing, before initiation of testing, 5B The edges of the cuts are completely smooth; none of the squares of the
remove two complete laps of tape from the roll and discard. lattice is detached.
4B Small flakes of the coating are detached at intersections; less than 5 %
Remove an additional length at a steady (that is, not jerked) of the area is affected.
rate and cut a piece about 75 mm (3 in.) long. 3B Small flakes of the coating are detached along edges and at
intersections of cuts. The area affected is 5 % to 15 % of the lattice.
13.7 Place the center of the tape over the grid and in the area 2B The coating has flaked along the edges and on parts of the squares.
of the grid. Smooth the tape into place by finger in the area of The area affected is 15 % to 35 % of the lattice.
the incisions taking care not to entrap air under the tape. Rub 1B The coating has flaked along the edges of cuts in large ribbons and
whole squares have detached. The area affected is 35 % to 65 % of
firmly over the surface of the tape with the pressure application the lattice.
device until the color is uniform in appearance. This indicates 0B Flaking and detachment worse than Classification 1B.
good, uniform contact between the tape’s adhesive and the 13.10 Repeat the test in two other locations on each test
coating surface. panel.
13.8 Within 90 s 6 30 s of application, remove the tape by 14. Report
seizing the free end and rapidly (not jerked) back upon itself at
as close to an angle of 180° as possible. 14.1 Report the substrate employed, the type of coating and
the method of cure, if known.
13.9 Inspect the grid area for removal of coating from the
substrate or from a previous coating using the illuminated 14.2 Report the number of tests, their mean and range.
magnifier. Rate the adhesion in accordance with the following 14.3 Report the adhesion strength of the pressure-sensitive
scale illustrated in Fig. 2: tape determined in accordance with Test Method D3330/
D3330M, Test Method A (equivalent to PSTC 101) and
10
utilizing a 90 second dwell time on a standard steel panel.
Test Method B has been used successfully by some people on coatings greater
than 0.13 mm (5 mils) by spacing the cuts 5 mm apart. However, the precision
14.3.1 Where the adhesion strength of the tape has not been
values given in 15.1 do not apply as they are based on coatings less than 0.13 mm determined, report the specific product name of the tape used,
(5 mils) in thickness. the manufacturer and the lot number, if available.

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 D3359 − 23
14.4 Report an estimate of the interface at which the coating 15.1.1 Repeatability—Provided adhesion is uniform over a
failure occurred as indicated by visible peeling or removal of large surface, results obtained by the same operator should be
the coating. For example, between the first coat and substrate, considered suspect if they differ by more than one rating unit
between the first and second coats, etc. for two measurements.
14.5 If the test is performed after immersion, report immer- 15.1.2 Reproducibility—Two results, each the mean of du-
sion conditions, time between immersion and testing, and plicates or triplicates, obtained by different operators should be
method of sample preparation. considered suspect if they differ by more than two rating units.
15. Precision and Bias7 15.2 Bias cannot be established for these test methods.
15.1 On the basis of two interlaboratory tests of this test 15.3 The manufacturer of the tape used in the interlabora-
method in one of which operators in six laboratories made one tory study (see RR:D01-1008) has advised this subcommittee
adhesion measurement on three panels each of three coatings that the properties of the tape used in that study have changed
covering a wide range of adhesion and in the other operators in since the study was performed and may not be relevant. Users
six laboratories made three measurements on two panels each
of it should, therefore, check whether current material gives
of four different coatings applied over two other coatings, the
comparable results to previous supplied material.
pooled standard deviations for within- and between-
laboratories were found to be 0.37 and 0.7. Based on these
16. Keywords
standard deviations, the following criteria should be used for
judging the acceptability of results at the 95 % confidence 16.1 adhesion; crosscut adhesion test method; tape; tape
level: adhesion test method; X-cut adhesion test method

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. COMMENTARY

X1.1 Introduction biguous procedure; relevance to its intended application; re-

X1.1.1 Given the complexities of the adhesion process, can peatability and reproducibility; and quantifiability, including a
adhesion be measured? As Mittal (4) has pointed out, the meaningful rating scale for assessing performance.
answer is both yes and no. It is reasonable to state that at the X1.2.2 Test methods used for coatings on metals are: peel
present time no test exists that can precisely assess the actual adhesion or “tape testing;” Gardner impact flexibility testing;
physical strength of an adhesive bond. But it can also be said and adhesive joint testing including shear (lap joint) and direct
that it is possible to obtain an indication of relative adhesion tensile (butt joint) testing. These tests do not strictly meet all
performance. the criteria listed, but an appealing aspect of these tests is that
X1.1.2 Practical adhesion test methods are generally of two in most cases the equipment/instrumentation is readily avail-
types: “implied” and “direct.” “Implied” tests include indenta- able or can be obtained at reasonable cost.
tion or scribe techniques, rub testing, and wear testing. Criti-
X1.2.3 A wide diversity of tests methods have been devel-
cism of these tests arises when they are used to quantify the
strength of adhesive bonding. But this, in fact, is not their oped over the years that measure aspects of adhesion (4-8).
purpose. An “implied” test should be used to assess coating There generally is difficulty, however, in relating these tests to
performance under actual service conditions. “Direct” basic adhesion phenomena.
measurements, on the other hand, are intended expressly to
measure adhesion. Meaningful tests of this type are highly X1.3 The Tape Test
sought after, primarily because the results are expressed by a X1.3.1 By far the most prevalent test for evaluating coating
single discrete quantity, the force required to rupture the “adhesion” is the tape-and-peel test, which has been used since
coating/substrate bond under prescribed conditions. Direct the 1930’s. In its simplest version a piece of adhesive tape is
tests include the Hesiometer and the Adherometer (5). Com- pressed against the paint film and the resistance to and degree
mon methods which approach the direct tests are peel, lap- of film removal observed when the tape is pulled off. Since an
shear, and tensile tests. intact film with appreciable adhesion is frequently not removed
at all, the severity of the test is usually enhanced by cutting into
X1.2 Test Methods the film a figure X or a cross hatched pattern, before applying
X1.2.1 In practice, numerous types of tests have been used and removing the tape. Adhesion is then rated by comparing
to attempt to evaluate adhesion by inducing bond rupture by film removed against an established rating scale. If an intact
different modes. Criteria deemed essential for a test to warrant film is peeled cleanly by the tape, or if it debonds just by
large-scale acceptance are: use of a straightforward and unam- cutting into it without applying tape, then the adhesion is rated

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 D3359 − 23
simply as poor or very poor, a more precise evaluation of such X1.1 as in the theoretical case—though the tensile force is
films not being within the capability of this test. greatest at the origin for both. A significant compressive force
X1.3.2 The current widely-used version was first published arises from the response of the tape backing material to being
in 1974; two test methods are covered in this standard. Both stretched. Thus both tensile and compressive forces are in-
test methods are used to establish whether the adhesion of a volved in adhesion tape testing.
coating to a substrate is at an adequate level; however they do X1.3.6 Close scrutiny of the tape test with respect to the
not distinguish between higher levels of adhesion for which nature of the tape employed and certain aspects of the
more sophisticated methods of measurement are required. procedure itself reveal several factors, each or any combination
Major limitations of the tape test are its low sensitivity, of which can dramatically affect the results of the test as
applicability only to coatings of relatively low bond strengths, discussed (9).
and non-determination of adhesion to the substrate where
failure occurs within a single coat, as when testing primers X1.4 Peel Adhesion Testing on Plastic Substrates
alone, or within or between coats in multicoat systems. For X1.4.1 Tape tests have been criticized when used for
multicoat systems where adhesion failure may occur between substrates other than metal, such as plastics. The central issues
or within coats, the adhesion of the coating system to the are that the test on plastics lacks reproducibility and does not
substrate is not determined. relate to the intended application. Both concerns are well
X1.3.3 Repeatability within one rating unit is generally founded: poor precision is a direct result of several factors
observed for coatings on metals for both methods, with intrinsic to the materials employed and the procedure itself.
reproducibility of one to two units. The tape test enjoys More importantly, in this instance the test is being applied
widespread popularity and is viewed as “simple” as well as low beyond its intended scope. These test methods were designed
in cost. Applied to metals, it is economical to perform, lends for relatively ductile coatings applied to metal substrates, not
itself to job site application, and most importantly, after for coatings (often brittle) applied to plastic parts (1). The
decades of use, people feel comfortable with it. unique functional requirements of coatings on plastic sub-
strates cause the usual tape tests to be unsatisfactory for
X1.3.4 When a flexible adhesive tape is applied to a coated measuring adhesion performance in practice.
rigid substrate surface and then removed, the removal process
has been described in terms of the “peel phenomenon,” as X1.5 The Tape Controversy
illustrated in Fig. X1.1.
X1.5.1 With the withdrawal from commerce of the tape
X1.3.5 Peeling begins at the “toothed” leading edge (at the specified originally, 3M No. 710, current test methods no
right) and proceeds along the coating adhesive/interface or the longer identify a specific tape. Differences in tapes used can
coating/substrate interface, depending on the relative bond lead to different results as small changes in backing stiffness
strengths. It is assumed that coating removal occurs when the and adhesive rheology cause large changes in the tension area.
tensile force generated along the latter interface, which is a Some commercial tapes are manufactured to meet minimum
function of the rheological properties of the backing and standards. A given lot may surpass these standards and thus be
adhesive layer materials, is greater than the bond strength at the suitable for general market distribution; however, such a lot
coating-substrate interface (or cohesive strength of the coat- may be a source of serious and unexpected error in assessing
ing). In actuality, however, this force is distributed over a adhesion. One commercially available tape test kit had in-
discrete distance (O-A) in Fig. X1.1, which relates directly to cluded a tape with adhesion strength variations of up to 50 %
the properties described, not concentrated at a point (O) in Fig. claimed by the manufacturer. Also, because tapes change on
storage, bond strengths of the tape may change over time (1, 2).
X1.5.2 The specific choice for the range of recommended
adhesive peel strengths for appropriate tapes of 6.34 N/cm
(58 oz ⁄in.) to 7.00 N/cm (64 oz/in.) was not chosen arbitrarily.
Recent versions of this standard had recommended the use of
a specific tape: Permacel P-99 tape. This tape was very popular
and was commonly used in accordance with Test Method
D3359 for many years. However, this tape was discontinued by
the manufacturer. While the tape was still available and within
its recommended shelf life, samples were sent to an indepen-
dent laboratory for testing. The results of the testing showed
that the Permacel product had an average adhesive peel
strength on steel of 6.67 N/cm (61 oz/in.) when tested in
accordance with Test Method D3330/D3330M, Test Method A
(equivalent to PSTC 101) and utilizing a 90 second dwell time.
In order to maintain a continuous testing program for current
users of the standard, the range above was set to be in line with
the discontinued Permacel product. At the time of this revision
FIG. X1.1 Peel Profile (6) to the standard, several tapes were reported to be advertised as

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 D3359 − 23
Permacel P-99 replacements and suitable for use with Test strengths of normal substrates and organic coatings. Although
Method D3359. To locate these sources, perform a relevant some rather brittle coatings may exhibit cohesive failure, the
internet search or contact your coatings testing supplier to ask tape test adhesion method does not make provision for giving
for their recommendations of compliant tape. failure locality (1, 2).
X1.6 Procedural Problems X1.6.2 Use of the test method in the field can lead to
variation in test results due to temperature and humidity
X1.6.1 Visual Assessment—The final step in the test is changes and their effect upon tape, coating and substrate.
visual assessment of the coating removed from the specimen,
which is subjective in nature, so that the coatings can vary X1.6.3 Test Method B has been used successfully, without
among individuals evaluating the same specimen (3). affecting adhesion test results, by some coil coating users on
X1.6.1.1 Performance in the tape test is based on the coatings up to and including 50 µm (2 mils) by spacing the cuts
amount of coating removed compared to a descriptive scale. 2 mm apart. While this may be an agreement between
The exposure of the substrate can be due to factors other than purchaser and seller, the precision values given in 15.1 do no
coating adhesion, including that arising from the requirement apply, as they are based on cuts 1 mm apart.
that the coating be cut (hence the synonym“ cross-hatch X1.6.4 Some have found that the use of a suitable mechani-
adhesion test”). Justification for the cutting step is reasonable cal device is helpful in minimizing some of the variables in
as cutting provides a free edge from which peeling can begin placing the tape onto the coatings (see 8.5 and 13.7) and
without having to overcome the cohesive strength of the removing the tape from the coatings (see 8.6 and 13.8) which
coating layer. maintains consistent pressure on the tape during application
X1.6.1.2 Cutting might be suitable for coatings applied to and ensures a 180° pull off.11
metal substrates, but for coatings applied to plastics or wood,
the process can lead to a misleading indication of poor X1.7 Conclusion
adhesion due to the unique interfacial zone. For coatings on X1.7.1 All the issues aside, if these test methods are used
soft substrates, issues include how deep should this cut within the Scope Section and are performed carefully, some
penetrate, and is it possible to cut only to the interface? insight into the approximate, relative level of adhesion can be
X1.6.1.3 In general, if adhesion test panels are examined gained.
microscopically, it is often clearly evident that the coating
removal results from substrate failure at or below the interface, 11
The sole source of supply of a suitable mechanical device for laying down and
and not from the adhesive failure between the coating and the removal of tape known to the committee at this time is ReliaPull, a registered
substrate. Cohesive failure within the coating film is also trademark of Random Logic LLC, manufactured by Random Logic LLC,
Cincinnati, OH 45245. If you are aware of alternative suppliers, please provide this
frequently observed. However, with the tape test, failures
information to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive
within the substrate or coating layers are rare because the tape careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible technical committee,1 which
adhesive is not usually strong enough to exceed the cohesive you may attend.

REFERENCES

(1) Nelson, G. L., Gray, K. N., and Buckley, S. E., Modern Paint and (5) Corcoron, E. M.,“Adhesion,” Chapter 5.3, Paint Testing Manual, 13th
Coatings, Vol 75, No. 10, 1985, pp. 160–172. ed., ASTM STP 500, ASTM, 1972, pp. 314–332.
(2) Nelson, G. L., and Gray, K. N., “Coating Adhesion to Plastics,” (6) Gardner, H. A., and Sward, G. G., Paint Testing Manual, 12th ed.,
Proceedings, Waterborne and Higher Solids Coatings Symposium, Vol Chapter 7, Gardner Laboratory, Bethesda, MD, 1962, pp. 159–170.
13, New Orleans, LA, February 5–7, 1986, pp. 114–131. (7) Mittal, K. L., Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology, Vol 1, No.
(3) Mittal,K. L., ed.,“Symposium on Adhesion Aspects of Polymeric 3, 1987, pp. 247–259.
Coatings,” Proceedings, The Electrochemical Society, 1981, pp. (8) Stoffer, J. O., and Gadodia, S. K., American Paint and Coatings
569–582. Journal, Vol 70, Nos. 50 and 51, 1991, pp. 36–40 and 36–51,
(4) Mittal, K. L., “Adhesion Measurement: Recent Progress, Unsolved respectively.
Problems, and Prospects,” Adhesion Measurement of Thin Films,
(9) Souheng, Wu, Polymer Interface and Adhesion, Marcel Dekker, Inc.,
Thick Films, and Bulk Coatings, ASTM STP 640, ASTM, 1978, pp.
New York, NY, 1982, p. 531.
7–8.

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 D3359 − 23
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