Reading an Adhesion Test Report for a Nano Coating

An adhesion result is meaningful only for a defined coating and substrate system. Before using a report to select a nano coating, check what was applied, how the surface was prepared and what the test was capable of detecting.

Identify the specimen

Look for the substrate, original finish, coating revision, preparation process, application and cure conditions. A result on a prepared steel panel does not automatically establish adhesion on chrome plating, PPF or a factory-coated appliance.

If several layers were present, ask which interface or material was evaluated. Failure within an underlying finish is different from separation of the added treatment at its contact surface.

Understand the method’s scope

ASTM D3359 describes tape-based adhesion rating methods and notes limits in distinguishing adhesion levels. A standard reference should therefore be accompanied by the actual method, specimen details and result, not treated as a universal proof of bond strength.

Very thin or unusual coating systems may require a different or adapted evaluation. The laboratory should explain suitability and any departure from the stated method.

Read the observations behind pass or fail

Ask for photographs, rating criteria and the condition examined after testing. Check whether the report records replicate specimens and variation. A pass label without an acceptance rule leaves the reader unable to judge what was accepted.

Do not perform improvised cutting and tape tests on a customer’s surface. Such work can be destructive and should use authorised specimens and appropriate procedures.

Connect the report to the application

Use the result as one part of product assessment alongside appearance, chemical exposure and maintenance requirements. If your substrate or preparation differs materially, ask whether additional testing is needed. A clear adhesion report narrows uncertainty about a specific system; it does not establish that the coating will adhere equally to every surface carrying the words metal, glass or ceramic.

Technical background

• ASTM D3359: rating adhesion by tape test

Your next step

Discuss your application with NANOLAB or explore private label coating development.