ASTM D3330 Standard Test Method for Peel Adhesion of Pressure-Sensitive Tape
ASTM D3330 describes methods for determining the peel adhesion of pressure-sensitive tape. It encompasses various methods for evaluating the adhesive properties of both single-coated and double-coated tape as well as adhesive transfer tape. Additional test methods for determining the adhesive force of tape are described in DIN EN 1939.
It is of particular importance for quality assurance and product development of adhesive tape in the industrial sector. It supports manufacturers in ensuring consistency and reliability of their products and enables customers to objectively compare the performance of different types of adhesive tape.
Test specimen
The specimen shall be 24mm [1 in.] wide. A tolerance of ±0.5 mm [± 1/64 in.] shall be allowed. The length shall be approximately300 mm[12 in.].
Discard at least three but no more than six outer wraps of tape from the sample roll before taking the specimens for testing.
Remove one specimen per sample roll for each test to be performed. Remove the specimen from a freely rotating roll at the rate of 500 to 750 mm/s [20 to 30 in./s]. Where width or other factors causing a high adherence to backing makes it impossible to remove the specimen at the prescribed rate, remove it at a rate as close to 500 mm/s [20 in./s] as possible.
When tape is wider than 24 mm [1 in.]. specimens of the widest specified width are to be cut from the center of a strip removed from the roll in accordance with above.
Apply specimen within 5 min after unwinding.
NOTE: Where the width of the specimen is less than 24mm [1in.], prior to applying test specimen, apply a strip or strips of the tape, to give an equivalent width of 24mm [1 in.] for rolling purposes or use roller of appropriate weight to obtain a line pressure equal to 2040g [4.5Ib] for 24mm [1 in.] width ±35 %.
Several ASTM D3330 Testing Methods
Test methods according to ASTM D3330 involves applying the specimen onto a standard test panel, then applying controlled pressure and peeling the tape off the panel under specified conditions, such as angle and speed.
Six methods (A to F) for measurement of the peel adhesion of pressure-sensitive tape are as below:
ASTM D3330 test method A measures the adherence of single-coated tape when peeled at a 180° angle.
A strip of adhesive tape is applied to a standard test panel, the free end is inserted into the specimen grip and directly pulled off the steel panel at a 180° angle. During the test, the force required to pull off the tape is measured.
ASTM D3330 test method B measures the adherence of the backing of single-coated tape.
A strip of adhesive tape is applied to a steel panel. A second strip of the tape is applied to the backing of the first strip of tape and tested for peel adhesion as described in method A.
ASTM D3330 test method C measures the adherence of double-coated tape.
Both the front and backside of the adhesive tape are peeled off the panel, using a strip of 0.025 mm thick polyester film as a backing. The test is performed as described in test method A.
ASTM D3330 test method D measures the adherence of the release liner to the adhesive of either single- or double-coated tape.
The tape is adhered to a standard steel test panel with the liner side up. The liner is separated from the tape and inserted into the specimen grip. The liner is peeled off the adhesive as described in test method A.
ASTM D3330 test method E measures the adhesion of adhesive transfer tapes.
Both the face side and the linear side of the tape are peeled off the panel. The tape is adhered to a standard panel (or other surface of interest). The liner is removed and a 0.025 mm (0.001 inch) thick strip of polyester is adhered to form a film-backed strip of tape. The adherence is tested as described in test method A.
ASTM D3330 test method F measures the adherence of single-coated tapes when peeled at a 90° angle.
A strip of tape is adhered to a standard test panel which is attached to the 90° peel test kit. The free end of the tape is inserted in the clamp and pulled off directly from the steel panel. The force required to pull off the tape is measured.
Percent of Grand Average for Condition Noted A&B
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