Shear resistance provides an indication of how well a pressure-sensitive adhesive can withstand a sustained force without slipping or failing. It can also help assess the potential for adhesive bleed, where adhesive moves beyond the edge of the label or tape face material.

Adhesive bleed can affect converting and application performance and may be associated with factors such as adhesive coat weight and adhesive flow characteristics.

For shear resistance testing, specimens are bonded to a specified area of a standard substrate, such as stainless steel or glass, or another surface relevant to the application. A defined load is applied and the time taken for the adhesive bond to shear from the test surface is recorded.

Testing can also be carried out under controlled temperature conditions to assess the effect of elevated temperatures on shear performance.

Test methods

Smithers can perform shear resistance testing using recognised methods including:

  • FINAT Test Method 8 for pressure-sensitive labels
  • ASTM D3654 for pressure-sensitive tapes
  • PSTC 107 for pressure-sensitive tapes

Talk to our experts about your label or tape application, adhesive performance or shear resistance requirements.

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