ASTM E2194-03

Instrumental Measurement Angles—This practice is designed to provide color data at specific measurement angles that can be utilized for quality control, color matching, and formulating in the characterization of metal flake pigmented materials.

Materials—This practice provides meaningful color information for metal flake pigmented materials, but has not been evaluated for use with pearlescent materials or other gonioapparent materials. This practice has been tested and verified on paint and coatings, and the same principles should apply to plastics containing metallic flake.

Utilization—This practice is appropriate for measurement and characterization of metal flake pigmented materials. These data may be used for quality control, incoming inspection, or color correction purposes.

Specimen Requirements—Even though a pair of specimens have the same color values at three angles, if there are differences in gloss, orange peel, texture, or flake orientation, they may not be a visual match.

Note 2—Information presented in this practice is based upon data taken on metallic materials coatings. Applicability of this practice to other materials should be confirmed by the user.

1.1 This practice covers the instrumental requirements, standardization procedures, material standards, and parameters needed to make precise instrumental measurements of the colors of gonioapparent materials. This practice is designed to encompass gonioapparent materials; such as, automotive coatings, paints, plastics, and inks.

1.2 This practice addresses measurement of materials containing metal flake and pigments. The optical characteristics of materials containing pearlescent and interference materials are not covered by this practice. The measurement of materials containing metal flakes requires three angles of measurement to characterize the colors of the specimen.

Note 1—Data taken by utilizing this practice are for appearance quality control purposes. This procedure may not necessarily supply appropriate data for pigment identification.

1.4 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.