New ASTM International Standard Will Help Measure Plastic Film Thickness

A new ASTM International standard will give the plastic film industry a better test method for measuring the average thickness and thickness variability of plastic film. The standard (D8136) was developed by ASTM International’s committee on plastics (D20).

“The new test method is more accurate, precise, and easier to use than existing test methods,” says ASTM International member Rob Lawrence, a mechanical engineer at SolveTech, Inc. “The standard will help almost the entire chain in the plastic film industry, and it will likely improve quality throughout the industry.”

Polymer producers, film producers, and film buyers will all find the new standard useful, according to Lawrence. 

“It will be most useful for aiding transactions between film producers and film buyers,” says Lawrence. “It will allow them to be on the same page with each other regarding thickness and variability. It will help the buyer find quality suppliers, and help quality suppliers be recognized for their efforts.”

The committee on plastics is looking for companies to participate in a full interlaboratory study for the standard. In addition, the committee is interested in hearing feedback from those using the standard. The next meeting of the committee on plastics is November 12-15 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

To purchase standards, contact customer relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org).

Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org
Committee Contact: Alyson Fick, tel +1.610.832.9710; afick@astm.org 

Committee
D20

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