scope:

Is one of a series of standards dealing with the sampling and testing of paints, varnishes and related products. It specifies a method for determining the hardness of a dried film of a paint, varnish or related product by conducting an indentation test in which the indentation length is measured under zero-load conditions using a microscope. It is applicable to single-coat and multicoat systems. The result is expressed as a hardness value, in N/mm², calculated from the indentation produced by a pyramidal indenter of a specified size and shape applied to the coating under specified conditions.