Analysis of Test Results D4541 − 17

Upon comple�on of the pull-off test, the dolly and coated surface
should be examined. In addi�on to pull-off force, many Na�onal
and Interna�onal standards such as ASTM D4541 and ISO 4624
require the nature of the fracture to be recorded.
Dolly Face
Cohesive Fracture:
fracture occurs within a coa�ng
layer (same coa�ng on dolly
face and coated surface).
Adhesive Fracture:
fracture occurs at the interface
between layers (coa�ng on
dolly face differs from surface).
Glue Failure:
visible separa�on of the glue from itself,
the coa�ng or dolly (no coa�ng visible on the dolly face).
Coated Surface
FIG. 1 Specimen Description
8.3 For tests where the load fixture becomes detached from
the tested surface, visually estimate the percent of coating
adhesive and cohesive fracture and glue failure in accordance
to their respective areas and location within the test system
comprised of coating and glue layers. Glue fracture or failure
is defined as a visible separation of the glue from itself, the
coating or load fixture. A convenient scheme that describes the
total test system is outlined in 8.3.1 through 8.3.3.
8.3.1 Describe the specimen as substrate A, upon which
successive coating layers B, C, D, etc., have been applied,
including the glue, Y, that secures the fixture, Z, to the top coat
(Fig. 1).

Dolly
5% 10% 15%
Glue

95% 90% 85%

20% 25% 30% 35%

SUBSTRATE
Cohesive Fracture Adhesive Fracture Glue Failure 80% 75% 70% 65%
(within a layer) (between layers) (coa�ng/glue)
40% 45% 50%
Glue failures typically occur when the glue is improperly mixed or
the coated surface has not been adequately prepared.
The PosiTest AT-A model provides an interface to document the 60% 55% 50%
nature of the fracture for each pull-off test (see pg. 10). Fracture
results are included in test reports.