Project
µ-scratching - Development of standardized abrasive materials and a reference material as well as adapted test methods for micro-scratch resistance of coatings
Micro-scratch resistance is an important quality criterion for flooring and furniture surfaces and is therefore the subject of several test standards. The determination of micro-scratch resistance is based on the Martindale method, in which the surface to be tested is subjected to abrasion by a scratching material at a specified pressure and frequency for a specified time.
The crucial point in this regard is that no standardized scratching materials exist. Adjustments in the manufacturing process of commercially available grinding nonwovens that are principially suitable can lead to variations in the properties of the scratching material and thus negatively influence the reproducibility of the test method. Similar difficulties are encountered with reference materials or surfaces, which are used to check the process and for batch control of the scratching material.
Therefore, new scratching materials with defined material and manufacturing parameters are to be developed, which are to be used as standardized normative test materials in the future. Furthermore, there is a focus on the development of a high gloss reference material with defined physical properties. In the course of the standardization of abrasion and reference material, the existing test method has to be adapted and improved. However, the Martindale method still remains the basis for determining micro-scratch resistance, so that existing test equipment can continue to be used and the principle of the test remains the same.
For the development of the scratching materials, TFI uses tufting technology that is known from textile manufacturing, with which precise and reproducible structures can be produced. The focus at IHD is on the development of the new reference material and the adaption of the test method. Furthermore, it will also be evaluated to what extent the previous visual assessment of the scratch pattern could be replaced by modern techniques of image capture and processing.
Project partners and/or other research institutes
Institut für Holztechnologie Dresden gemeinnützige GmbH (IHD)
Acknowledgement
The INNO-KOM project ” Development of standardized abrasive materials and a reference material as well as adapted test methods for micro-scratch resistance of coatings (µ-scratching)” 49MF210012) is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as part of the Innovation Competence INNO-KOM program.