Materials characterization involves a variety of important and common ways to compare physical and barrier properties of diverse materials, by utilizing standard test methods such as ASTM and TAPPI, as well as through customized, client-specific tests. This includes, but is not limited to: flexible barrier packaging, elastomers, coated and non-coated plastics and papers. All testing is performed in an environmentally controlled atmosphere.

Materials Property Testing

Tensile tests are a common way to compare physical properties. They provide attribute information such as strength, stiffness (Young’s Modulus) and resistance to stretching. Resin selection and orientation methods are the main variables that influence tensile values.

Determines the abrasion resistance of printed materials applicable to labels, folding cartons, corrugated boxes, inserts and other flat materials.

Determines the coefficients of starting and sliding friction (Static and Kinetic) of plastic film and sheeting when tested against itself or another surface.

Water Vapor Transmission is the standard measurement by which films are compared for moisture resistance and transmission. This method utilizes a Modulated Infrared sensor.

Oxygen transmission determines the rate of oxygen transfer through materials. This property is critical when determining the shelf-life of oxygen sensitive products. This method utilizes a Coulometric sensor.

Measures high optical density in the range of 5.1 to 15.4 ODU. This is critical if a material needs to exhibit a high range of light blocking capability.

Measures peel adhesion properties for single and double-coated pressure sensitive tapes at various angles. Measure the bond strength of multi layer materials by determining the force required to separate each layer.

A full list of our test methods is available.