Loop Tack Test Method for Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives

Metoda testování

In the world of pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs), tack is the initial grab that allows a label, tape, or sticker to adhere upon brief contact. The metoda zkoušky přilnavosti smyčky has become a standardized and efficient way to quantify this critical performance property. This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to conduct loop tack testing in accordance with PSTC-16, ASTM D6195a FINAT FTM 9, and introduces the Cell Instruments LTT-01 Loop Tack Tester—an ideal tool for quality control and R&D environments.

Understanding the Importance of Loop Tack Testing

The metoda zkoušky přilnavosti smyčky is widely recognized for evaluating the adhesive’s ability to form an immediate bond with a surface under minimal pressure. Unlike peel or shear tests that measure long-term bond strength, loop tack focuses on initial adhesion, making it particularly valuable for fast-moving applications such as automatic labeling, medical tapes, and temporary bonding.

Key applications include:

• Quality control in PSA tape production
• Product development of labels and self-adhesive films
• Compliance testing for ASTM D6195, PSTC-16a FINAT FTM 9

Loop Tack Testing and Pressure Sensitive Tape Loop Tack

Test Principle and Standards Overview

Loop tack testing involves forming a loop of PSA material with the adhesive facing outward. The loop contacts a standardized test surface—usually stainless steel nebo glass—and the force required to detach the loop is recorded. This force, expressed in Newtons per 10 mm nebo pounds per inch, reflects the tack strength of the adhesive.

Norma	Loop Length	Surface Area	Key Notes
PSTC-16	125 mm or 175 mm	24 mm × 24 mm	Two test methods (tensile tester or loop tack tester)
ASTM D6195	125 mm (Method B) or 175 mm (Method A)	25 mm × 25 mm	Widely used in U.S. testing labs
FINAT FTM 9	175 mm	25 mm × 25 mm (glass)	Preferred in Europe for label adhesives

How to Perform the Loop Tack Test

1. Sample Preparation

• Cut the specimen into 125 mm (for loop tack tester) nebo 175 mm (for tensile tester) lengths, 25 mm wide.
• If testing unsupported adhesives, laminate them onto 2 mil PET film.
• Condition the specimens at 23°C ± 2°C a 50% ± 5% RH for at least 24 hours.

2. Surface Cleaning

Clean test panels thoroughly using acetone, MEK, nebo ethanol-based solvents. Perform at least three cleaning cycles, using lint-free wipes.

3. Test Setup

For Loop Tack Tester (Method B):

• Form the adhesive strip into a teardrop-shaped loop with adhesive facing outward.
• Attach the loop ends using 12 mm masking tape.
• Mount the loop on the upper jaw and bring it into contact with the test panel.
• The tester automatically applies and separates the loop at 300 mm/min.

For Tensile Tester (Method A):

• Použijte vertical fixture that holds the stainless steel panel.
• Form a loop using 24 mm × 175 mm strips.
• Engage the crosshead to bring the loop into contact and then separate at 300 mm/min.

https://youtu.be/L1HbDnq-LxQ?si=t_VRyO0h2ftd9KQ-

4. Measurement and Reporting

Record:

• Maximum force (peak tack)
• Failure mode (adhesive failure, cohesive failure, or adhesive transfer)
• Podmínky prostředí
• Backing type and coating weight

Použijte at least three replicates per sample and average the peak values.

Výběr správného testeru smyček

For laboratories seeking accuracy, repeatability, and compliance... LTT-01 Loop Tack Tester podle Buněčné nástroje offers an optimized solution. This device fully supports ASTM D6195 Method B, PSTC-16a FINAT FTM 9 protocols. Key features include:

• Precise force measurement with digital output
• Automated cycling for improved repeatability
• Quick-change sample fixtures for different tape types
• Uživatelsky přívětivé rozhraní for R&D and quality control

Whether you’re a label manufacturer or a PSA developer, the LTT-01 streamlines your tack testing process and delivers standard-compliant results every time.

Contact Us Get Loop Tack Testing Solution

The metoda zkoušky přilnavosti smyčky má zásadní význam pro kvantifikaci okamžité vazebné schopnosti lepidla citlivá na tlak. Dodržováním uznávaných standardů, jako je např. PSTC-16, ASTM D6195a FINAT FTM 9, a s využitím přesných zařízení, jako je např. Buněčné nástroje LTT-01, laboratoře mohou zajistit spolehlivé, opakovatelnéa v souladu se standardem hodnocení výkonu lepidla.

Pro organizace, které hledají přizpůsobení, automatizace nebo odborná podpora, Buněčné nástroje nabízí kompletní technická řešení na míru vašim potřebám v oblasti testování materiálů pro obaly, zdravotnictví, farmacii a další oblasti.