ASTM D3121-17

5.1 The rolling-ball tack test is fast, easy to run, and requires little investment in equipment and little operator training. This test is intended primarily for quality control use since it demonstrates good reproducibility within a single laboratory and ability to detect batch-to-batch variations accurately if adhesive film thickness is held constant. Rolling ball tack is not intended as an investigative tool since for most pressure sensitive adhesive applications rolling ball tack results do not correlate well with application tack requirements.

1.1 This test method covers measurement of the comparative tack of pressure-sensitive adhesives by a rolling ball and is most appropriate for low-tack adhesives. This test method is only one of several available for the measurement of tack.

1.2 Values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents, therefore, each system must be used independently without combining values in any way.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.