ASTM D7027 Scratch & Mar Resistance Testing for Coatings & Surfaces
The standard test method ASTM D7027-13 is used to produce and quantify surface damage on polymers and plastics. The method helps to determine the scratch resistance of a material and rank relative scratch resistance of different materials and also to evaluate the scratch coefficient of friction using an automated scratch machine.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D7027-13 describes a test method for evaluating the scratch resistance of polymeric coatings and plastic surfaces using a standardized spherical-tipped stylus under a progressive normal force. The method quantifies scratch visibility, surface deformation, and damage onset thresholds, providing critical data for consumer products, automotive interiors, and durable goods.
Understanding scratch behavior is essential for material selection and coating development in applications where appearance retention and surface durability are key performance requirements.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D7027-13 applies to polymeric coatings and plastic substrates and assesses:
- Critical normal force at which scratch becomes visible (Fc)
- Scratch width and depth as a function of applied force
- Recovery behavior of the scratched surface (elastic vs. plastic deformation)
- Comparison of scratch resistance across different materials or coatings
Applications
- Automotive interior plastic and coating qualification
- Consumer electronics housing material selection
- Appliance surface durability assessment
- Protective coating development for eyewear and optics
- Packaging material scratch resistance comparison
Benefits
- Provides quantitative, reproducible scratch resistance data
- Identifies critical load thresholds for surface damage onset
- Enables comparison of competing coating or material options
- Simulates realistic fingernail or object scratch scenarios
- Supports the development of self-healing and scratch-resistant coatings
Test Process
Specimen Setup
The coated or plastic test specimen is mounted on the scratch test stage and leveled.
1Progressive Scratch
A diamond or carbide stylus is drawn across the surface under a linearly increasing normal force; speed and force range are specified.
2Surface Inspection
The scratch track is inspected visually and under microscopy to identify the onset of visible scratching and measure damage dimensions.
3Data Analysis
Critical force, scratch width, and depth profile are recorded; results are reported with replicate statistics.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Principle | Progressive load scratch with spherical stylus |
| Stylus Tip | Diamond or stainless steel; 1 mm radius |
| Force Range | 0–30 N (progressive or fixed load) |
| Scratch Speed | 100 mm/min |
| Measured Outputs | Critical scratch force (Fc), scratch width, depth |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Scratch resistance tester with progressive load capability
- Spherical diamond or stainless steel stylus (1 mm radius)
- Optical microscope or profilometer for scratch measurement
- Load cell for real-time force monitoring
- Data acquisition and analysis software
Results and Deliverables
- Critical visible scratch force (Fc in Newtons)
- Scratch width and depth profiles
- Surface recovery percentage after scratch
- Comparative ranking of tested materials
- Photographic documentation and test report
Why Choose Infinita Lab for ASTM D7027-13?
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Our team understands the stakes and subtleties of every test. Whether you’re validating a new Product, de-risking a prototype, or navigating complex compliance requirements, our specialists guide the process with rigor and clarity.
Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
Fc is the normal force at which a scratch first becomes visible to the naked eye under standard lighting; it is the primary measure of scratch resistance in this test.
Both standards use a progressive load scratch technique and spherical stylus, and their results are generally comparable; D7027 is the ASTM version, while ISO 19252 is the international equivalent.
Yes — ASTM D7027 is commonly used to evaluate the scratch resistance of automotive clear coat systems and interior trim coatings.
Not always — scratch resistance depends on a combination of hardness and elasticity; some softer materials recover elastically and show good scratch resistance despite low hardness.
Yes — the scratch test leaves a visible mark on the specimen; separate specimens are required for each test condition.
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