The peel adhesion test is an effective method to measure the adhesive bond between two materials. Peel strength testers are widely used in the industry to ensure the utilization of quality adhesive bonds for the required applications. The peel strength of an adhesive bond can vary based on material and application. Hence it is imperative to study the adhesive material under various parameters such as temperature, surface, substrate material, humidity, etc.

Various forms of adhesives are constantly used in the packaging industry. Right from packing boxes to holding packets together, everything required the application of the adhesive bond to hold things in place. Have you ever thought about what happens if the applied bands lose their effectiveness as an adhesion material over time? It could lead to a disaster. Loss of material or wastage of products if the packaging contains perishable items. Hence its imperative to perform a quality check every time you change the adhesive bond used in packaging your products.

What Is Peel Adhesion Testing?

The peel adhesion test is a method used to determine the strength of the adhesive bond. The test measures the force required to separate the adhesive bond between two surfaces. Specially designed instruments record the exact force required to detach a material from a substrate at a precise angle and a specific rate. The primary objective of this peel adhesion test is to predict the suitability of a given packaging material based on its bond strength and required application.

The test also helps compare the performance of various adhesive materials and perform a quality check on adhesive bonds used in the packaging industry. Typically the strength value of an adhesive bond can vary anywhere between a few ounces to hundreds of pounds per inch. The test results can help manufacturers evaluate the quality of adhesive materials. It can help determine the sustainability of the bond during the manufacturing, packaging, transit, and delivery phase.

How To Perform The Peel Adhesion Test

You need a peel-strength tester to perform the test. Ensure you purchase the equipment from a reliable brand like Pacorr to ensure accurate readings. The test is performed under specified angles. 90 and 180 degrees are preferred by most manufacturers and testers. Following are the basic steps performed to determine the test value of the adhesive bond.

Step 1: The sample to be tested is placed on the machine.
Step 2: The ends of the bonded materials are pulled in opposite directions at a set load by gripping solid vice-type clamps. Manufacturers can request different clamp designs as per requirements.
Step 3: The tester has overload and travel safety protocols in place to ensure safe work environments for users.

How To Choose The Right Instrument?

• Choose a tabletop model with a digital display for higher accuracy of test results. Ensure it includes load and elongation values.
• Instruments with a memory capacity for multiple test results can help compare the test values precisely.
• Invest in an instrument with a single screw mechanism with induction motors and a dedicated gearbox for easy access to maintain speed variations.

Final Thoughts

Peel strength testing is an excellent way to characterize adhesive bonds. It is extensively used in the industry to monitor various strength parameters under peel loading. The modern bond strength tester equipment is empowered with microprocessor-based programmable logical controllers that perform precise readings. Users can also opt for a more sophisticated computer interface integrated feature that connects the instrument to a machine to deliver comprehensive test results in graphs and excel sheets.