Preparation of coatings for analysis

Ideally, it is easiest to analyse the polymer before application, to prevent any interference by the fabric substrate, adhesives or any finishing processes such as water repellency or colouration by printing. However, this is not practical on the finished coated fabric or laminate. 

When the strength of the coating exceeds the strength of the fibre/coating bond, there are several approaches  

These tests are used for thin coatings, but are also recommended for all polymer coatings and membranes to minimise contamination by substrates and finishes  

Appearance Thin, clear coating Thin white membrane Thick, dense coating Thick, dense, black/grey coating PU, acrylic, silicone, PE PTFE, microporous PU PVC, PVDC Natural, butyl, neoprene, SBR, nitrile rubbers 

Appearance under Microporous fibrillar voids or PTFE, microporous PU 

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