1.1 This test method covers the determination of the degree of adhesion (bonding strength) of a coating to a substrate or the cohesion strength of the coating in a tension normal to the surface. The test consists of coating one face of a substrate fixture, bonding this coating to the face of a loading fixture, and subjecting this assembly of coating and fixtures to a tensile load normal to the plane of the coating. It is adapted particularly for testing coatings applied by thermal spray, which is defined to include the combustion flame, plasma arc, two-wire arc, high-velocity oxygen fuel, and detonation processes for spraying feedstock, which may be in the form of, wire, rod, or powder.

1.2 Usually this test method is performed at ambient temperature. Higher temperature testing is restricted by the need for a suitable adhesive bonding agent. For certain fundamental investigations, it is suggested that very low (cryogenic) temperature be used.

1.3 This test method is limited to testing thermal spray coatings that can be applied in thickness greater than 0.015 in. (0.38 mm). The limitation is imposed because an adhesive bonding agent is used in the test. Those bonding agents established so far for this method tend to penetrate thermal spray coatings and may invalidate results unless the coatings are thick enough to prevent penetration through the coating. Further development may establish that thin layers of certain types of especially dense coatings may be tested satisfactorily. Alternatively, new adhesive bonding agents that would allow reduction of the minimum thickness limitation may become available.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.