This test, when applied to laminated plastics, is a measure of the interlaminar or intralaminar strength, whichever is smaller, in a direction normal to the plane of the laminate. When applied to nonlaminated plastics, the test is a measure of the cohesive strength of the material. The property determined is fundamental and has not yet been correlated with the results of any other method for bond strength.

The test may be found to be useful as (1) a research test when studying the effects of changes in independent variables, (2) a specification test, or (3) a referee test.

Before proceeding with this test method, reference should be made to the specification of the material being tested. Any test specimen preparation, conditioning, dimensions or testing parameters or combination thereof covered in the relevant ASTM materials specification shall take precedence over those in this test method. If there are no relevant ASTM material specifications then the default conditions apply. Table 1 of Classification System D4000 lists the ASTM materials standards that currently exist.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the bond strength or ply adhesion strength of sheet plastic and electrical insulating materials. It is applicable to both laminated and nonlaminated thermoplastic and thermosetting materials.

1.2 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and appropriate for use in engineering design.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 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 practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Note 1—There is no known ISO equivalent to this standard.