FINAT FTM 1 Testing of Peel adhesion 180°

At our test laboratory, we perform testing after FINAT FTM 1 for the determination of peel adhesion (180° peel adhesion) of self-adhesive materials, pressure-sensitive labels and other pressure-sensitive adhesive systems. The test enables the evaluation of permanent adhesion and the comparison of different adhesive formulations on paper, film or composite substrates. For manufacturers and converters of labels, self-adhesive laminates and plastic films, this label testing method provides an important basis for product development, quality assurance and complaint investigations.

At the accredited testing laboratory of FILK Freiberg Institute, corresponding investigations are carried out on paper labels, film labels, plastic films, multilayer polymer composites and other flexible materials. The determined characteristic values provide important information regarding adhesive performance, processability and fitness for use of self-adhesive materials.

Application of FINAT FTM 1 Testing

The FINAT FTM 1 test is used to evaluate peel adhesion or permanent adhesion of self-adhesive materials. It is particularly suitable for comparing different pressure-sensitive adhesives and label materials with respect to their adhesion performance on defined surfaces. The test is of particular importance for pressure-sensitive labels and labels that must remain permanently bonded to the respective substrate. Determination of peel adhesion after short and extended contact times also provides information on the build-up of ultimate adhesion of an adhesive system.

Test Procedure and Details

In accordance with FINAT FTM1, the self-adhesive material under investigation is applied to a standardized glass test plate or alternatively to other defined surfaces. After application using a standardized FINAT roller, testing is performed after a contact time of 20 minutes and again after 24 hours.

Testing according to FINAT FTM 1 is conducted under standardized climatic conditions of 23 °C and 50 % relative humidity. The specimens are peeled from the test surface at an angle of 180° and a crosshead speed of 300 mm/min. Peel adhesion is reported as the mean value in Newton per 25 mm (N/25 mm). In addition, failure modes such as cohesive failure, adhesive transfer, contamination of the test plate or face material failure are documented.

Relation to Other Label Testing Methods

The characteristic values determined according to FINAT FTM 1 are frequently evaluated together with additional tests from the FINAT test programme. In addition to peel adhesion testing, investigations of initial tack according to FINAT FTM 9 and cohesion testing according to FTM 3 "Static Shear Adhesion" can be performed.

Please feel free to request this test or obtain information about our complete FINAT testing programme.