Quantitative evaluation of scratch resistance of polymeric coatings based on a standardized progressive load scratch test

A new quantitative testing methodology is employed to study the scratch behavior of polymeric coatings. The effects of coating ductility and thickness on a set of model experimental acrylic polymers coated on steel substrate are investigated. The progressive load test provides information regarding the critical normal load to failure for onset of damage processes such as coating delamination, transverse cracking and buckling failure. Both optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy are utilized to characterize the coating damage. The new test method proves effective in quantitative evaluation of coating resistance against scratch.