ASTM D2370-16 (2021) PDF

Full title and description

Designation: ASTM D2370 − 16 (Reapproved 2021) — Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Organic Coatings. This standard specifies procedures for determining elongation, tensile strength, and stiffness (modulus of elasticity) of organic coatings tested as free films.

Abstract

ASTM D2370 provides a standardized tensile test method for free films of organic coatings. It defines specimen preparation, test apparatus and grip requirements, test speeds and gage lengths, units of measurement (SI preferred), and reporting conventions so laboratories and manufacturers can obtain reproducible tensile strength, elongation at break, and modulus data for coating films.

General information

• Status: Current (reapproved).
• Publication date: Original revision 2016; designation D2370‑16 reapproved November 1, 2021.
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 25.220.60 (Organic coatings).
• Edition / version: D2370‑16 (Reapproved 2021).
• Number of pages: 4.

Scope

This test method covers determination of elongation, tensile strength, and stiffness (modulus of elasticity) for organic coating films tested as free films. It applies to laboratory-produced free films of coatings and is intended for comparative evaluation, quality control, and research where film tensile properties are relevant. SI units are the standard; inch‑pound units may be provided for information only.

Key topics and requirements

• Definition of measurable tensile properties: elongation at break, ultimate tensile strength, and modulus (stiffness).
• Specimen preparation and film application practices to obtain representative free films (control of film thickness and uniformity).
• Film thickness measurement (micrometer techniques) and reporting of specimen thickness.
• Tensile testing equipment requirements (constant rate of jaw separation type), grips, and fixture recommendations.
• Specified gage length, test speed (rate of separation), and temperature considerations to ensure reproducible results.
• Data reduction and reporting conventions, with SI units required as the standard.
• Notes on sources of variability (film thickness, specimen preparation, grip type, tester response) and the need for strict control when making comparative measurements.

Typical use and users

Used by coating manufacturers, independent testing laboratories, quality control/assurance personnel, R&D scientists, and regulatory bodies. Typical applications include product development, formulation comparison, batch acceptance testing, performance evaluation after aging or weathering, and failure analysis where film tensile properties influence service performance.

Related standards

Commonly used together with other ASTM methods and practices for coating film preparation and measurement, for example Practices D823 (film application methods) and Test Method D1005 (film thickness measurement). It is conceptually related to other tensile and film property tests such as ASTM D882 (tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting) and additional paint/coating physical property standards maintained by ASTM Committee D01.

Keywords

tensile test, elongation, tensile strength, modulus, stiffness, organic coatings, free film, film thickness, ASTM D2370, coating film properties

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D2370 is a standard test method for measuring tensile properties (elongation, tensile strength, and modulus) of organic coating films tested as free films. Its designation is D2370‑16 and it was reapproved in 2021.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen preparation, test apparatus and grips, test speeds and gage lengths, thickness measurement, data reduction, and reporting conventions necessary to obtain reproducible tensile property data for coating films.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Coatings manufacturers, independent and institutional testing laboratories, quality/control technicians, R&D personnel, and agencies evaluating or regulating coating performance.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The D2370‑16 edition was reapproved in 2021 and is currently the active/reapproved version (designation shown as D2370‑16 (Reapproved 2021)).

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: D2370 is one of many standards under ASTM Committee D01 (Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications) addressing physical and performance properties of coatings; it is typically used alongside related practices and test methods for film preparation and measurement.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Elongation, tensile strength, modulus, stiffness, organic coatings, free film, film thickness, tensile tester.