EAA Film for AIMCAL Adhesion Test – The Key to Reliable Metalized Film Bonding – Have you ever faced issues like metalized film delamination, poor barrier properties, or customer complaints due to weak adhesion in flexible packaging? If so, you’re not alone. Adhesion failure in metalized films is one of the most common and costly problems in the packaging industry worldwide.
The challenge lies in the fact that visual inspection alone cannot guarantee adhesion quality. What you need is a standardized, globally recognized method to measure the bond strength of metalized layers before shipping the product. This is where AIMCAL TP-105 and EAA Film come into play.
In this article, you will learn why AIMCAL TP-105-92 is the industry benchmark for adhesion testing, the role of EAA Film in this process, and how adopting this method can protect your brand reputation, reduce waste, and improve QC compliance.
Why Adhesion Testing Matters in Metalized Films
The Real Cost of Poor Adhesion
Adhesion failure is not just a technical issue – it’s a financial nightmare. Some common consequences include:
- Product Rejection: Retailers and brand owners often reject entire batches.
- Loss of Barrier Properties: Compromised oxygen and moisture barrier.
- Production Downtime: Additional costs for rework and machine cleaning.
- Customer Complaints: Damaged reputation and loss of contracts.
The Problem with Visual Inspection
Many converters rely on a “look and feel” method, which is not reliable. Even if the film appears perfect, weak adhesion can lead to delamination during lamination, slitting, or filling.
AIMCAL TP-105 – The Global Standard for Adhesion Testing
What is AIMCAL TP-105-92?
AIMCAL (Association of International Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators) developed the TP-105-92 method as a quantitative, repeatable test for evaluating the adhesion of vacuum-deposited metal on plastic films. This method is widely accepted across packaging industries globally.
Why Use EAA Film for Adhesion Testing?
The Role of EAA Film
EAA (Ethylene Acrylic Acid) Film is the key component in AIMCAL’s testing method. Why?
- Strong bonding capability with standard adhesives.
- Neutral interaction with metalized layers – ensures true adhesion failure detection.
- Consistent thickness for accurate peel force measurements.
Benefits of EAA Film in QC
- Standardization: Recommended by AIMCAL for global compliance.
- Accuracy: Eliminates variability from other test substrates.
- Reliability: Proven in high-end flexible packaging plants worldwide.
Equipment and Materials Required
To perform AIMCAL TP-105 adhesion testing, you need:
- Tensile Tester (Peel Tester): Speed set to 12 inches/minute.
- Heat Sealer: With controlled temperature and pressure.
- EAA Film: Standard thickness for test laminates.
- Adhesive (DAF 899): For laminating EAA film to metalized sample.
- Release Paper: To prevent sticking during sealing.
Step-by-Step Guide: AIMCAL TP-105 Adhesion Testing
1. Prepare the Sample
- Cut the metallized film into 12-inch by 4-inch strips.
- Ensure no scratches or defects on the metalized surface.
2. Laminate with EAA Film
- Apply adhesive between the metalized layer and EAA film.
- Seal using heat sealer:
Temperature: 220°F (104°C)
Pressure: 15 psi
Dwell Time: 15 seconds
3. Conditioning
- Let the laminate cool at room conditions (50% RH, 22°C).
4. Cut Test Strips
- Slice the laminate into five strips (2.5-inch width) for peel testing.
5. Perform Peel Test
- Mount one end of the sample in the tensile tester.
- Pull at 12 inches/min at 180° angle.
- Record peel strength in grams/inch or N/cm.
How to Interpret the Results
- High peel force = Strong adhesion (good metal layer integrity).
- Low peel force = Weak adhesion (risk of delamination).
- Compare results with internal QC benchmarks or AIMCAL guidelines.
The Difference Between TP-104 and TP-105
- TP-104: Simple tape test (go/no-go).
- TP-105: Quantitative, reproducible, and compliant with international standards.
Real-World Applications
Companies in Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Southeast Asia have recently adopted AIMCAL testing with EAA Film for:
- Flexible Packaging QC
- Supplier Qualification
- New Metalizing Process Validation
Key Advantages for Your Business
- Reduce customer complaints by validating adhesion strength.
- Comply with global packaging standards.
- Improve production consistency.
Infographic
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Conclusion
If your packaging relies on metalized films, AIMCAL TP-105 adhesion testing is not optional – it’s essential. Using EAA Film ensures that your tests are accurate, repeatable, and globally accepted. Don’t leave your QC to chance. Standardize your testing today.
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FAQ Section
Q: What is EAA Film used for?
EAA Film is a special test film used in AIMCAL TP-105 adhesion testing to evaluate the bonding strength of metalized layers.
Q: Why AIMCAL TP-105 instead of a simple tape test?
Because it provides quantitative, reproducible results, while tape tests are subjective.
Q: Can EAA Film be used in production?
No, it is designed only for QC testing, not for final packaging structures.