TAPPI T541  Internal Bond Strength of Paperboard (Z-Direction Tensile)

TAPPI T541 Z-directional tensile test describes a procedure for measuring the internal fiber bond strength (z-direction tensile strength) of paperboard using

an instrument that subjects a normal separation force to a 6.45-cm² (1-in.²) specimen.

The procedure consists of applying double (two-sided) coated, pressure-sensitive tape to both sides of a test specimen.

The specimen is then placed between two platens and compressed uniformly over the entire specimen surface area.

Uniform tension is then applied over the entire test area in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the sample (z-direction) to affect a separation.

The test is intended for paperboards and some papers which have internal fiber bond strength (cohesive strength) lower than the adhesive bond strength of the tape

to the specimen and/or test platens.

The material from which the platens are made will affect the adhesive strength between platen and tape.

The selection of tape may also affect test results. These effects may be seen as tape failures or in some cases higher test values caused by adhesive migrating into sample.

The adhesive bond strength of the tape is critical to reproducible test results.

New batches of tape should be tested for consistent bond strength.

Bond strength can be tested by performing peel tests on standard test plates, or by testing a stable reference sample.

Significance

The internal bond strength of paperboard provides an indication of expected performance, e.g., strength of board in relation to glue bonding at carton side seams,

and possible delamination on scoring, or use of high tack coatings.

This method has also been found useful for the evaluation of coated fine papers.

The results must be interpreted according to each user’s requirement and to each end use.

*** Before conducting TAPPI T541 , it is important to read the entire specification. Standards can be obtained from appropriate standard authorities.