ASTM D6578-00
(Practice)Standard Practice for Determination of Graffiti Resistance
Standard Practice for Determination of Graffiti Resistance
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
Graffiti on building and structures is an ongoing and increasing problem. A number of coatings have been produced that are intended to be resistant to the application of a graffiti marking, or to provide a surface from which such markings can be easily removed. The procedures described in this practice provide a standard set of conditions that can be used to evaluate the graffiti resistance of a surface.
Graffiti resistance determined according to this practice is applicable to smooth surfaces. Graffiti resistance of the same coatings applied to a rough or textured surface may be lower.
Graffiti resistance of materials determined after natural or laboratory accelerated weathering conducted according to this practice, is considered as having more weight than graffiti resistance of the same material determined using freshly applied graffiti on surfaces, that have not been weathered. Graffiti resistance of materials determined after natural weathering should be considered as having more weight than graffiti resistance determined after laboratory accelerated weathering.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a basic method for evaluating graffiti resistance of coatings, and use of this practice to evaluate graffiti resistance of coatings after outdoor or laboratory accelerated exposure. Graffiti resistance is based on how a defined set of markings is removed by a defined set of cleaning agents.
1.2 A procedure for evaluating graffiti removal by alternate cleaning agents is included in a mandatory annex.
1.3 This practice also defines procedures to evaluate graffiti removal after remarking with subsequent re-cleaning. It does not address recoatability after a coating is no longer graffiti resistant.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.5 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.
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation:D6578–00
Standard Practice for
Determination of Graffiti Resistance
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 6578; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope G113 Terminology Relating to Natural and Artificial
Weathering Tests of Nonmetallic Materials
1.1 This practice covers a basic method for evaluating
G 147 Practice for Conditioning and Handling of Nonme-
graffiti resistance of coatings, and use of this practice to
tallicMaterialsforNaturalandArtificialWeatheringTests
evaluate graffiti resistance of coatings after outdoor or labora-
G 154 Practice for Operating Fluorescent Light Apparatus
tory accelerated exposure. Graffiti resistance is based on how a
for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials
defined set of markings is removed by a defined set of cleaning
agents.
3. Terminology
1.2 A procedure for evaluating graffiti removal by alternate
3.1 The definitions given in Terminology G113 are appli-
cleaning agents is included in a mandatory annex.
cable to this practice.
1.3 This practice also defines procedures to evaluate graffiti
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Practice:
removal after remarking with subsequent re-cleaning. It does
3.2.1 graffıti resistance—The property of coatings to be
not address recoatability after a coating is no longer graffiti
resistanttotheapplicationofgraffitiorexhibitingeasyremoval
resistant.
of graffiti without surface damage.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
3.2.2 repellent—The property of coatings that prevents
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
materials commonly used as graffiti markings, from forming a
only.
continuous film upon application.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
4. Summary of Practice
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
4.1 A series of materials typically used as graffiti markings
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
is applied to test panels of the surface being evaluated. The
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
graffiti markings are removed using a series of procedures that
begin with wiping with a dry cloth and end with cleaning the
2. Referenced Documents
surface with an aggressive cleaner. The graffiti resistance is
2.1 ASTM Standards:
2 reportedasacleanabilitylevelbasedonthefirstmethod,which
D 523 Test Method for Specular Gloss
3 completely removes the graffiti marking.
D 740 Specification for Methyl Ethyl Ketone
D 5402 Practice for Assessing the Solvent Resistance of
5. Significance and Use
Organic Coatings Using Solvent Rubs
5.1 Graffiti on building and structures is an ongoing and
E 1347 Test Method for Color and Color-Difference Mea-
increasing problem.Anumber of coatings have been produced
surement by Tristimulus (Filter) Colorimetry
that are intended to be resistant to the application of a graffiti
E 1349 Test Method for Reflectance Factor and Color by
marking,ortoprovideasurfacefromwhichsuchmarkingscan
Spectrophotometry Using Bidirectional Geometry
be easily removed. The procedures described in this practice
G7 Practice for Atmospheric Environmental Exposure of
5 provideastandardsetofconditionsthatcanbeusedtoevaluate
Nonmetallic Materials
the graffiti resistance of a surface.
5.2 Graffiti resistance determined according to this practice
is applicable to smooth surfaces. Graffiti resistance of the same
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on Paint and
coatings applied to a rough or textured surface may be lower.
Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications and is the direct responsibility of
5.3 Graffiti resistance of materials determined after natural
Subcommittee D01.46 on Industrial Protective Coatings.
Current edition approved July 10, 2000. Published September 2000.
or laboratory accelerated weathering conducted according to
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 06.01.
this practice, is considered as having more weight than graffiti
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 06.04.
resistance of the same material determined using freshly
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 06.02.
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.04. applied graffiti on surfaces, that have not been weathered.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
D6578–00
Graffiti resistance of materials determined after natural weath- 7. Test Specimen
ering should be considered as having more weight than graffiti
7.1 Apply the material to be evaluated for graffiti resistance
resistance determined after laboratory accelerated weathering.
to the aluminum test panels according to the manufacturer’s
instructions, following any relevant procedures for surface
6. Apparatus
preparation prior to application.
6.1 Aluminum Panels, sized to fit the washability apparatus
7.2 Unless otherwise specified, prepare at least three speci-
used unless otherwise specified. A minimum of 15 panels will
mens of each material being evaluated for each phase of the
be needed for each surface being tested for graffiti resistance.
procedure described in this practice.
6.2 Straight-line Washability Apparatus, capable of a mov-
NOTE 1—For the four markings and five cleaning agents specified in
ing a sponge/holder assembly over the marked area of a test
this practice, a total of 60 panels would provide three replicates for each
panel at a speed of 37 6 1 cycles per min. The travel of the
marking/cleaner combination.
sponge/holderassemblyshallbeatleast203mm(8in.)ineach
7.2.1 Prepare also at least one file specimen that can be used
direction.
for comparison to the unmarked or unexposed materials, or
6.2.1 Cellulose Sponge, coarse pore grade meeting Federal
both.
Specification L-S-626, Type II. The thickness of the sponge
7.3 Unless otherwise specified, allow the coated test speci-
shallbesuchthatwhencompressedbetweentheholderandtest
mens to cure for at least 24 h at room temperature before
panel, there is at least 3 mm ( ⁄8 in.) between the test panel
continuing the test.
surface and the bottom of the sponge holder.
NOTE 2—Some anti-graffiti coatings may require more than 24 h to
6.2.2 Sponge Holder and Weights. The total dry weight of
achieve optimum graffiti resistance. In such cases, follow the manufac-
the holder plus weights shall be 1500 6 10 g.
turer’s recommendations for curing.
6.2.3 Stainless Steel Pan.
7.4 Measure and record initial 60° gloss on coated test
6.2.4 “C” Clamps.
specimen.
6.2.5 Lint-free Cloth or Paper Towels, for cleaning appara-
7.5 After measuring gloss, place the template over the
tus.
centerofthepreparedtestpanelandapplythefollowinggraffiti
6.3 Graffıti Marking Material:
marking materials uniformly within the outlined area. Do not
6.3.1 Solvent-Based Ink Marker, blue,
apply more than one marking material to any test panel. Store
6.3.2 Solvent-Based Spray Paint, red,
the marked panels at room temperature for at least 24 h before
6.3.3 Wax Crayon, blue or black.
beginning to evaluate for removal.
6.3.4 Water-based Ink Marker, black,
7.5.1 Solvent based ink marker: blue permanent marker ,
6.3.5 Other marking materials based on mutual agreement
7.5.2 Solvent based spray paint: red ,
between all interested parties.
7.5.3 Wax crayon: blue or black,
6.4 Template, with 51-mm (2-in.) diameter hole used to
7.5.4 Water Based ink marker: Black , and
define area where graffiti marking material will be applied.
7.5.5 Other making materials based on mutual agreement
6.5 Cleaning Material:
between all interested parties.
6.5.1 Dry, Lint-Free Cotton Cloth.
7.5.6 If the graffiti marking material does not uniformly wet
6.5.2 Mild Detergent, 1 % aqueous solution.
out the test panel, the test surface is considered “repellent.”
6.5.3 Citrus-Based Cleaner, meeting the following basic
Cover as much of the surface as possible. In this case, the
composition: 40 to 90 % D-limonene, up to 50 % glycol ether,
appearance of the dried marking may be very irregular.
up to 13 % non-ionic surfactant.
6.5.4 Isopropyl Alcohol.
8. Graffiti Removal Procedure Using Washability Tester
6.5.5 Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), conforming to Specifi-
8.1 Level the washability apparatus and set it to operate at a
cation D 740.
speed of 37 6 1 cycles/min (cpm); each cycle consisting of a
6.6 Pipet or Syringe, capable of depositing 10 61mLof
complete forward and reverse stroke.
cleaning liquid on the test panel.
8.2 Center the stainless steel tray and test panel below the
6.7 For Outdoor Exposures—Outdoor Exposure Rack,
path traveled by the sponge/holder and use “C” clamps to
meeting the requirements of Practice G7 for open backed
securely clamp them in place.
exposures.
8.3 Wrap a dry, lint-free cotton cloth around the sponge so
6.8 For Laboratory Accelerated Exposures—Fluorescent
that there are at least two layers covering the top and bottom
UV Exposure Device, equipped with fluorescent UVA lamps
surfaces.
withpeakemissionat343nm,andoperatedinaccordancewith
8.4 Place the cotton-wrapped sponge in the sponge holder
Practice G 154.
and position on the traveling arm of the washability apparatus.
6.9 Proper Safety Equipment, as determined from the sol-
8.5 Operate the washability apparatus until the wrapped
vent Material Safety Data sheets (MSDS), for example, solvent
sponge moves across the marked area 50 times (25 complete
resistant gloves, and respirator.
cycles).
8.5.1 After the panel has been washed for 25 complete
cycles, gently wipe it with no more than three complete cycles
Solvent-based permanent ink marker, Blue Sharpiey, water-based ink marker,
using a clean, lint-free cotton cloth to remove the last remains
Eberhard Faber Black, and solvent-based spray paint, Krylony Red have been
found to be suitable marking agents. of any material.
D6578–00
8.6 Evaluate the test specimen for removal of graffiti. all replicate panels, the test is complete and the surface can be
rated as “Cleanability Level 5.” If the graffiti marking is not
8.6.1 Proceed to the next most aggressive cleaner, (see 6.5),
completely removed from any of the replicate panels, the test
if visual inspection shows that it is obvious that the marking
is complete and the surface is rated as “Not Cleanable.”
has not been removed (8.8).
8.12 If the washability tester does not comply with appli-
8.6.2 A marking is considered as completely removed if
cable safety requirements for use of solvents near electrical
there is no visual evidence of residual material or “shadow”
equipment, evaluate cleanability with isopropanol, MEK, and
and the following two criteria are met:
any other solvents using the manual method described in
8.6.2.1 Retention of 60° Gloss—After the graffiti marking
Section 9.
has been removed, measure the 60° gloss according to Test
Method D 523 on each specimen. Determine the ratio of the
NOTE 3—Evaluation of other cleaning agents is described inAnnexA1
averageglossmeasuredafterthemarkinghasbeenremoved,to
of this practice.
the average gloss measured on the panels prior to marking.The
ratio shall be at least 0.80. 9. Graffiti Removal Procedure Using Manual Solvent
Rubs
8.6.2.2 Color Shift—For each replicate specimen, measure
color in accordance withTest Methods E 1347 or E 1349 in the
9.1 In some cases, it may not be possible to evaluate graffiti
area where the graffiti was removed, and in an area where no
resistance using a washability tester. In these cases, the
graffiti was applied. Calculate Delta E CIE LAB based on
following manual cleaning procedure may be used if agreed
comparison of the average color coordinates for the cleaned
upon between all interested parties.
surface, and the average color coordinates for the surface prior
9.2 Wrap a clean sponge with at least two layers of dry,
to marking, or for an unmarked area of the same specimen. For
lint-free cotton cloth and rub across the marked area of a set of
a graffiti marking to be considered as completely removed, the
marked specimens for 25 complete back and forth cycles, in
Delta E shall be less than 1.
accordance with Practice D 5402. If it is obvious that the
8.6.2.3 Evaluate and report any other damage that may have
marking has been removed, the rubbing can be stopped before
occurred during the graffiti removal (for example, blistering,
25 complete cycles.
softening, loss of adhesion, etc.) according to relevant stan-
9.2.1 After the panel has been cleaned for 25 complete
dards.
cycles, gently wipe it with no more than three complete cycles
8.7 If the marking is completely removed from all replicate
using a fresh clean, lint-free cotton cloth to remove the last
panels after cleaning with the dry cotton cloth according to
remains of any material, then evaluate for graffiti removal in
8.2-8.6, the test is complete, and the surface can be rated as
accordance with 8.6.
“Cleanability Level 1.”
9.3 If cleaning with the cotton cloth wrapped sponge does
8.8 If cleaning with the cotton cloth wrapped sponge does
not completely remove the marking, saturate a clean sponge
not completely remove the marking, mount a fresh test panel
with a 1 % aqueous solution of mild detergent, and rub across
with the graffiti marking in the tray of the washability appara-
the marked area of a set of marked specimens for 25 complete
tus according to 8.2. Saturate a clean sponge with a 1 %
back and forth cycles in accordance with Practice D 5402.Ifit
aqueous solution of mild detergent and place it in the sponge
is obvious that the marking has been removed, the rubbing can
holder assembly. Place 10 mL of the aqueous detergent
be stopped before 25 complete cycles. Repeat for each repli-
solution on either side of the marked area and operate the
cate panel with the marking being evaluated and evaluate for
washability apparatus according to 8.5, until the sponge moves
graffiti removal according to 8.6. If the marking is completely
across the marked area 50 times (25 complete cycles). Repeat
removed from all replicate panels, the test is complete, and the
for each replicate panel with the marking being evaluated, and
surface can be rated as “Cleanability Level 2.”
evaluate for graffiti removal according to 8.6. If the marking is
9.4 If cleaning with the 1 % aqueous solution of mild
completely removed from all replicate panels, the test is
detergent does not completely remove the marking, repeat the
complete and the surface can be rated as “Cleanability Level
steps d
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.