5.1 Instrumental Measurement Angles—This test method is designed to provide color data at specific measurement angles that can be utilized for quality control, color matching, and formulating in the characterization of metal flake pigmented materials.

5.2 Materials—This test method provides meaningful color information for metal flake pigmented materials. This test method has been tested and verified on paint and coatings, and the same principles should apply to plastics containing metallic flake. For materials containing pearlescent materials refer to Test Method E2539.

5.3 Utilization—This test method is appropriate for measurement and characterization of metal flake pigmented materials. These data may be used for quality control, incoming inspection, or color correction purposes.

5.4 Specimen Requirements—Even though a pair of specimens have the same color values at three angles, if there are differences in gloss, orange peel, texture, or flake orientation, they may not be a visual match.

Note 2: Information presented in this test method is based upon data taken on metallic materials coatings. Applicability of this test method to other materials should be confirmed by the user.

1.1 This test method covers the instrumental requirements, standardization procedures, material standards, and parameters needed to make precise instrumental measurements of the colors of gonioapparent materials. This test method is designed to encompass gonioapparent materials; such as, automotive coatings, paints, plastics, and inks.

1.2 This test method addresses measurement of materials containing metal flake and pigments. The measurement of materials containing metal flakes requires three angles of measurement to characterize the colors of the specimen. The optical characteristics of materials containing pearlescent and interference materials are not covered by this test method.

Note 1: Data taken by utilizing this test method are for gonio-appearance quality control purposes. This procedure may not necessarily supply appropriate data for spatial-appearance or pigment identification.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as 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.