Hardness Measurement of Functional Film

Introduction

Functional films are films in which new functions/value are added by processes such as surface treatment. Some examples are the application of coating or vapor deposition on a substrate film, multilayer processing to form a laminate-like structure, or printing. Functional films are used in a wide range of fields, including electrical/electronics, automotive, energy production fields, the life sciences, and packaging. Such films can be found in familiar products, including liquid crystal screens of smartphones, tablets, computers, touch panels of restaurant ordering systems and car navigation devices. Even higher added value is expected in functional films in the future. It is necessary to evaluate the physical properties of functional films such as durability to withstand use and flexibility in forming. Until now, the pencil hardness test has been used to evaluate the susceptibility of functional films to scratching. This article introduces an example of an evaluation of a functional film by measurement of Martens hardness using a Shimadzu DUH™-211 dynamic ultra micro hardness tester.

October 22, 2020 GMT