Coatxpert plastic paint testing panels are used when you want to check paint adhesion, durability, or appearance on non-metallic substrates (commonly for automotive, consumer goods, electronics, etc.). Here’s a step-by-step method:
- Surface Preparation
Clean: Wipe the panel with IPA (isopropyl alcohol) or another suitable solvent to remove dust, oil, or grease.
Surface activation (if required): Light sanding or scuffing (to create roughness for adhesion). Flame treatment, plasma treatment, or corona discharge (in industrial labs) for very smooth plastics.
Make sure the surface is dry and contamination-free.
- Coating Application
Apply paint using the same process as intended in real use:
Spray coating (most common).
Dip or brush (less common, more for special testing).
Apply in multiple coats if the paint system requires primer + base coat + clear coat.
- Drying & Curing
Follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions:
Air dry, oven cure, or UV cure depending on the paint type.
Record curing time, temperature, and method.
- Testing Methods
Adhesion
Cross-hatch test (ISO 2409 / ASTM D3359).
Pull-off adhesion (ASTM D4541).
Flexibility & Impact
Mandrel bend test (ASTM D522).
Impact resistance test (ASTM D2794).
Scratch & Abrasion
Pencil hardness test (ASTM D3363).
Taber abrasion test.
Environmental Resistance
Humidity chamber test.
Thermal cycling test (heat-cold cycles).
UV weathering (QUV chamber, ASTM G154).
Chemical Resistance
Spot tests (solvents, cleaners, fuels, cosmetics, etc., depending on end-use).
- Observation & Reporting
Note changes in adhesion, gloss, color, cracking, peeling, chalking, softening, or deformation.
