Paint & Coating Testing
APM Testing provides A2LA accredited (ISO 17025) laboratory services for physical properties of paint, chemical analysis of paint, accelerated aging of paint, electrical testing of paint, and paint material certification. Many other organic coatings can also be tested using methods intended for paint.
Physical Properties of Paint
Coating thickness of paint is important because if it is too thin then it will not provide adequate protection and if too thick other problems such as incomplete curing, cracking, or weak adhesion can occur. Adhesion (ASTM D3359) to the substrate can be weakened due to poor surface preparation, surface contamination, or other factors. Paint with poor abrasion resistance (ASTM D4060) should not be used for floors, hallways, or other high wear areas.
Chemical Analysis of Paint
The organic base material for paint can be identified using FTIR Analysis (ASTM E1252) and inorganic fillers can be identified using EDS Analysis. It is common for the inorganic colorants, flame retardants, and thickeners to be added to the organic binder.
Accelerated Aging of Paint
Accelerated UV Exposure (ASTM G154) of paint provide a good relative measure of how well a paint will last outdoors as compared to other existing formulations. Color measurements (ASTM E1331) before and after exposure provide a good way to quantify the degree of weathering. Corrosion resistance using salt spray testing (ASTM B117) provides a measure of resistance to marine environments or salt covered roads.
