ASTM D1709 Impact Resistance of Plastic Film by the Free-Falling Dart Method

ASTM D1709 is the ultimate standard for assessing the impact resistance of plastic film using the free-falling dart method. This test evaluates the durability of films under stress, ensuring quality and performance in various applications. Learn how to implement this standard to enhance your product's reliability and safety in the market.

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ASTM D1709 Impact Resistance of Plastic Film by the Free-Falling Dart Method

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Overview
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Test Process
Specifications
Instrumentation
Results and Deliverables

Overview

ASTM D 1709 is the standard method of testing the impact resistance of plastic films and sheeting by a free-falling dart. The technique consists of dropping a weighted dart from a known height, thus permitting computation of the energy delivered to the film upon impact.

This test simulates real-life shock loading and helps evaluate the resistance of plastic films to handling, transportation, and other forms of sudden impact. ASTM D1709 provides a valid measure of material toughness that supports manufacturing quality improvements and performance consistency for packaging, protective, and industrial applications.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits

Scope

ASTM D1709 covers procedures for determining the impact resistance of plastic films by measuring the dart weight that causes failure in 50% of tested specimens.
It evaluates:

The dart weight required to rupture the film
Impact strength at a fixed drop height
Performance differences based on film fabrication and material type
Failure behavior under sudden shock loading

Two methods are used:

Method A – For films with lower impact resistance (drop height: 66 cm / 26 in)
Method B – For higher-strength films (drop height: 152.4 cm / 60 in)

Applications

Packaging materials used for food, consumer goods, and transport protection
Construction films, such as vapor barriers and coverings
Automotive films, insulation layers, and protective coatings
Electronics packaging, requiring protection against mechanical impact
General plastic film R&D to optimize formulations and performance

Benefits

Provides a quantitative measure of film toughness
Helps determine suitability for impact-prone handling and shipping conditions
Supports quality control and product consistency
Assists manufacturers in reducing material failures during logistics
Enhances product reliability and customer satisfaction

Test Process

Specimen Preparation

Cut film samples to the required size (typically 25.4 cm × 25.4 cm), ensuring they are wrinkle-free, defect-free, and properly conditioned.

Test Setup and Method Selection

Secure the specimen in the test device, select Method A or B based on film toughness, and adjust dart weight using added or removed masses.

Impact Testing

Drop the hemispherical dart from the specified height onto the clamped film, varying the weight until 50% specimen failure is achieved.

Result Determination

Record the dart weight that causes 50% failure as the film’s impact resistance, expressed in grams or kilograms.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Test Principle	Free-falling dart impact to determine failure at 50% probability
Sample Types	Plastic films and sheeting
Specimen Size	Typically 25.4 cm × 25.4 cm (10 in × 10 in)
Drop Height	Method A: 66 cm (26 in) Method B: 152.4 cm (60 in)
Measured Output	Dart weight causing failure (g or kg)
Analysis Basis	Energy required to rupture the film under shock loading
Failure Criterion	Rupture or visible tear upon dart impact

Instrumentation Used for Testing

Free-falling dart impact tester with hemispherical dart head
Adjustable dart weights for varying impact loads
Clamping fixture to hold film securely
Height-controlled drop mechanism for Methods A and B
Visual inspection tools for detecting failure or rupture

Results and Deliverables

Dart weight causing 50% failure (impact resistance value)
Performance comparison between Methods A and B
Assessment of film toughness and failure mode
Impact behavior data for material selection and improvement
Verification of packaging durability for handling and transport stresses
Quality control metrics for consistent production performance

Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D1709 is a standard test method for measuring the impact resistance of plastic film and sheeting.

Method A is used for films with lower impact resistance, and Method B is for higher impact resistance.

The test is straightforward and provides consistent results when comparing different materials. It can be used for a wide range of plastic films and sheeting, from thin films to thicker materials.

ASTM D1709 measures the impact resistance of plastic films using a free-falling dart. The test determines the dart weight that causes 50% of the specimens to fail, providing a measure of the film's toughness.