NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.

Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information

Designation: D 1709 – 03

Standard Test Methods for

Impact Resistance of Plastic Film by the Free-Falling Dart
Method1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 1709; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* actually rupturing. Subcommittee D20.19 is currently considering meth-

ods for testing these materials. Anyone interested in participating in a Task
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the Group should contact the Chairman of Subcommittee D20.19 through
energy that causes plastic film to fail under specified conditions ASTM International Headquarters.
of impact of a free-falling dart. This energy is expressed in NOTE 2—This test method is technically equivalent to ISO 7765-1:
terms of the weight (mass) of the missile falling from a 1988, with the exception of a larger tolerance on the drop height in Test
specified height which would result in 50 % failure of speci- Method B. Also, the ISO method does not allow the alternative testing
mens tested. technique described in Section 11 of this test method.
1.2 Two test methods are described: 1.5 This standard does not purport to address the safety
1.2.1 Test Method A employs a dart with a 38.10 6 0.13- concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
mm [1.500 6 0.005-in.] diameter hemispherical head dropped of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and
from a height of 0.66 6 0.01 m [26.0 6 0.4 in.]. This test health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
method may be used for films whose impact resistances require limitations prior to use.

iTeh Standards
masses of about 50 g or less to about 2 kg to fracture them.
1.2.2 Test Method B employs a dart with a 50.80 6 0.13- 2. Referenced Documents
mm [2.000 6 0.005-in.] diameter hemispherical head dropped
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
2.1 ASTM Standards:
from a height of 1.50 6 0.03 m [60.0 + 0.25, −1.70 in.]. Its D 374 Test Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insu-
range of applicability is from about 0.3 kg to about 2 kg. lation2
1.3 Two testing techniques are described:
Document Preview
1.3.1 The standard technique is the staircase method. By
D 618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing3
D 883 Terminology Relating to Plastics3
this technique, a uniform missile weight increment is employed D 1248 Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Extrusion
during test and the missile weight is decreased or increased by Materials for Wire and Cable3
the uniform increment after test of each specimen, depending
ASTM D1709-03 D 3420 Test Method for Dynamic Ball Burst (Pendulum)
upon https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/cb3504f3-72ca-4c2a-bc74-5561c3c1eea2/astm-d1709-03
the result (fail or not fail) observed for the specimen. Impact Resistance of Plastic Film4
1.3.2 The alternative technique provides for testing speci- D 4272 Test Method for Total Energy Impact of Plastic
mens in successive groups of ten. One missile weight is Films by Dart Drop4
employed for each group and missile weight is varied in E 177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
uniform increments from group to group. ASTM Test Methods5
1.3.3 The staircase technique and the alternative technique E 691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
give equivalent results both as to the values of impact failure Determine the Precision of a Test Method5
weight which are obtained and as to the precisions with which 2.2 ISO Standard:
they are determined. ISO 7765:1988 Plastic Film and Sheeting—Determination
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as of Impact Resistance by the Free Falling Dart Method—
standard. The values stated in parentheses are for information Part 1: Staircase Method6
only.
3. Terminology
NOTE 1—Tests on materials that do not break, for any reason, are not
considered to be valid. It has been noted that certain materials may stretch 3.1 Definitions—For definitions related to plastics, see
so far as to bottom out at the base of certain test instruments without Terminology D 883.

2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 10.01.
1 3
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 08.01.
4
Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.19 on Film and Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 08.02.
5
Sheeting. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02.
6
Current edition approved March 10, 2003. Published April 2003. Originally Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
approved in 1959. Last previous edition approved in 2001 as D 1709 – 01. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

1
 D 1709 – 03
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: 5.1.1 Dart Well—If the dart impact machine utilizes an
3.2.1 failure—any break through the film that can be ob- enclosed dart well, it must contain a single unobstructed vent
served readily by feeling or by viewing the specimen under with a minimum area of 625 mm2 (~1 in.2) to provide adequate
backlighted condition. venting.
3.2.2 impact failure weight—that missile weight, estimated NOTE 3—Some dart impact machine designs utilize enclosed dart wells
statistically, at which 50 % of the specimens would fail in the that do not permit adequate venting to the atmosphere during impact. Data
specified test. have shown that this has a significant effect on the observed impact value,
3.2.3 missile weight—the weight (mass) of the dart plus the especially with films that exhibit high elongation during testing, resulting
in atypically high impact values.
total value of incremental weights attached plus the locking
NOTE 4—The use of smaller, multiple vents is permitted if it can be
collar.
demonstrated that the venting efficiency is comparable and has no
statistically significant effect on the values obtained.
4. Significance and Use
5.1.2 Specimen Clamp—A two-piece annular specimen
4.1 Test Methods A and B are used to establish the weight of clamp having an inside diameter of 125 6 2.0 mm [5.0 + 0.0,
the dart when 50 % of the specimens fail under the conditions −0.15 in.] and conforming to the following requirements:
specified. Data obtained by one test method cannot be com-
5.1.2.1 The lower or stationary half of the clamp shall be
pared directly with the other test method nor with those
mounted rigidly so that the plane of the specimen is horizontal.
obtained from tests employing different conditions of missile
velocity, impinging surface diameter, effective specimen diam- 5.1.2.2 The upper or movable part of the clamp shall be
eter, and thickness. The values obtained by these test variables designed to maintain positive and plane contact with the lower
are highly dependent on the method of film fabrication. part of the clamp when in position. The clamps shall be
provided with suitable means of maintaining sufficient contact
4.2 The results obtained by Test Methods A and B are to hold the film sample firmly in place during the test.
greatly influenced by the quality of film under test. The Pneumatically operated clamps have been successfully em-
confidence limits of data obtained by this procedure can, ployed.

iTeh Standards
therefore, vary significantly, depending on the sample quality,
5.1.2.3 Rubber-like gaskets may be affixed to the specimen
uniformity of film gage, die marks, contaminants, etc. (see
contact surfaces of both clamps to provide a cushion which
Section 15).
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
minimizes thickness variation effects. Rubber gasketing
4.3 Test Methods A and B have been found useful for 3.0 6 1 mm [0.125 + 0.025, −0.04 in.] thick, of 50 to 60 Shore
specification purposes. Correlation between test results and A durometer hardness, 125 6 2.0 mm [5.00 + 0.00, −0.15 in.]
Document Preview
field performance can usually be established.
4.4 The impact resistance of plastic film, while partly
in inside diameter and 150 6 3.0 mm [6.0 + 0.02, −0.2 in.] in
outside diameter has been found satisfactory for this purpose.
dependent on thickness, has no simple correlation with sample 5.1.2.4 Slippage of films greater than 0.10 mm [0.004 in.] in
thickness. Hence, impact values cannot be normalized over a
range of thickness without producing misleading data as ASTM
to the D1709-03
thickness may be minimized or eliminated by securing crocus
cloth or 50D garnet abrasive paper to the gaskets with double
actualhttps://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/cb3504f3-72ca-4c2a-bc74-5561c3c1eea2/astm-d1709-03
impact resistance of the material. Data from these test sensitive tape so that the abrasive surface is in direct contact
methods are comparable only for specimens that vary by no with the film. There should be sufficient clamping force to
more than 625 % from the nominal or average thickness of the eliminate detectable slippage. Other means of reducing slip-
specimens tested. page such as additional clamping devices or positive clamping
4.5 Several impact test methods are used for film. It is surfaces may be used provided that the film is not weakened at
sometimes desirable to know the relationships among test the inside wall of the specimen clamps and that the effective
results derived by different test methods. A study was con- diameter of 125 6 2.0 mm [5.00 + 0.00, −0.15 in.] of the film
ducted in which four films made from two resins (polypropy- is not changed.
lene and linear low-density polyethylene), with two film 5.1.3 Dart Release Mechanism, capable of supporting a
thicknesses for each resin, were impacted using Test Methods 2-kg weight shall be used for supporting and releasing the dart
D 1709 (Method A), D 3420 (Procedures A and B), and assembly. It shall be equipped with a centering device, such as
D 4272. The test results are shown in the Appendix. Differ- a removable plumb bob, to ensure a reproducible drop. Either
ences in results between Test Methods D 1709 and D 4272 may an electromagnetic- or pneumatic-operated release mechanism
be expected since Test Methods D 1709 represents failure may be used.
initiated energy, while Test Method D 4272 is initiation plus 5.1.4 Positioning Device—The apparatus shall be able to
completion energy. Some films may show consistency when drop the dart from heights of 0.66 6 0.01 m [26.0 6 0.4 in.]
the initiation energy is the same as the total energy. This for Test Method A and 1.50 6 0.03 m [60.0 + 0.25, −1.70 in.]
statement and the test data also appear in the significance for Test Method B. The distance between the impinging surface
sections and appendixes of Test Methods D 3420 and D 4272. of the dart head and the surface of the test specimen is
considered to be the drop height. The dart shall be positioned
5. Apparatus vertically above the center of the test specimen.
5.1 The apparatus shall be constructed essentially as shown 5.1.5 Micrometer, accurate to 60.0025 mm [60.0001 in.]
in Fig. 1, using the following components common to both test in the range from 0.0025 mm [0.0001 in.] to 1 mm [0.4 in.] for
methods: measuring specimen thickness (see Test Methods D 374).

2
 D 1709 – 03

iTeh Standards
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
Document Preview
NOTE—Legend Dart Assembly:
A. Steel shaft tip 6.5 6 1 mm [0.25 + 0.04, −0.03 in.] OD by 12.5 6 0.2 mm [0.50 + 0.00, −0.02 in.] long.
ASTM
B. Dart shaft: 6.5 6 1 mm [0.25 + 0.04, −0.03 in.] OD and at least D1709-03
115 mm [4.5 in.] long: 1⁄4 –20 thd. (N.C.) 12.5 6 0.2 mm [0.50 + 0.00, −0.02 in.]
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/cb3504f3-72ca-4c2a-bc74-5561c3c1eea2/astm-d1709-03
long on bottom: No. 5–40 thd. (N.F.) for steel tip.
C. Hemispherical head: Method A—38.10 6 0.13–mm [1.500 6 0.005–in.] in diameter. Method B—50.80 6 0.13–mm [2.000 6 0.005 in.] in diameter.
D. Removable weights.
E. Collar and screw.
FIG. 1 Apparatus for Free-Falling Dart Impact Test for Plastic Film

5.1.6 Cushioning and Shielding Devices, to protect person- constructed of smooth, polished aluminum, phenolic, or other
nel and to avoid damaging the impinging surface of the dart. low-density material of similar hardness.
These devices shall not interfere with the dart or the specimen 5.2.2 For Test Method B, the dart head shall be
prior to penetrating the specimen. 50.80 6 0.13–mm [2.000 6 0.005 in.] in diameter. It may be
5.1.7 Collar with inside diameter of approximately 7 mm constructed of smooth, polished stainless steel or other material
[0.28 in.] and with set screw for securing collar to dart shaft. of similar durability.
5.2 Darts for Test Methods A and B shall have hemispheri-
cal heads, each fitted with a 6.5 6 1-mm [0.25 + 0.04, −0.03- 5.3 The material of construction of the dart head shall be
in.] diameter shaft at least 115 mm [4.5 in.] long to accommo- referenced in the report using the following designations:
date removable incremental weights. Each dart weight shall be Material Construction Designation

known to 60.5 % relative. Dart head surfaces shall be free of Stainless Steel A
Aluminum B
nicks, scratches, or other irregularities. The shaft shall be Phenolic C
attached to the center of the flat surface of the head with its Composite D
longitudinal axis perpendicular to the surface. If an electro- Other E
magnet is used, the shaft shall be made of material that is not NOTE 5—Data have shown a sensitivity of impact results related to the
magnetic and shall have a steel tip 125 6 0.2 mm [0.50 + 0.00, material of construction and finish of the dart head used. The differences
−0.02 in.] long at the end held by the electromagnet. have been especially significant when testing films exhibiting high impact,
5.2.1 For Test Method A, the dart head shall be or high elongation characteristics, or both. This issue, together with related
38.10 6 0.13–mm [1.500 6 0.005–in.] in diameter. It may be concerns, is currently under study in Subcommittee D20.19.

3
 D 1709 – 03
5.4 Incremental Weights for Test Methods A and B shall be 8.1.1 For Test Method A select a dart with a 38.10 6 0.13-
of stainless steel or brass and cylindrical in shape. Each shall mm [1.500 6 0.005-in.] diameter hemispherical head. For Test
have a center hole 6.6 + 1.0, −0.00 mm [0.26 + 0.03, −0.00 in.] Method B, select a dart with a 50.80 6 0.13-mm
in diameter. The thickness of each shall be adjusted to obtain [2.000 6 0.005-in.] diameter hemispherical head.
the specified weight within 60.5 %. The diameter of the 8.1.2 Activate the dart release mechanism and insert the
weights shall not exceed the diameter of the dart head. steel shaft tip into the mechanism. The dart should be held in
Suggested combination of weights for the specified diameters place by the dart release mechanism. Adjust the drop height
are as follows: (the vertical distance from the plane of a clamped specimen to
5.4.1 For Test Method A, 31.5 6 1-mm [1.25 + 0.03, −0.05- the bottom surface of the dart head) to 0.66 6 0.01 m
in.] diameter weights. [26.0 6 0.4 in.] for Test Method A or to 1.50 6 0.03 m
[60.0 + 0.25, −1.70 in.] for Test Method B. (Caution—For
Number Weight, g safety reasons, remove the dart while making position adjust-
2 or more 5 ments.)
8 15
8 30
8.1.3 With a trial film specimen clamped between the
8 60 specimen clamps and with no added weights on the dart,
release the dart and observe the point at which the dart impacts
5.4.2 For Test Method B, 45.0 6 1-mm [1.75 + 0.06, −0.02- the specimen, catching the dart after it bounces off the film
in.] diameter weights. surface. If necessary, adjust the dart release mechanism so that,
in repeated trials, the dart reproducibly impacts the center of
Number Weight, g the clamped portion of the film.
2 or more 15 8.2 Check the apparatus periodically to make sure specimen
8 45
8 90
slippage during testing is not occurring. If slippage occurs, this
is reason to reject the results. The likelihood of occurrence of
5.4.3 Optionally, additional weights, each 120 g 6 0.5 % slippage increases with increasing dart weight and with in-

iTeh Standards
for Test Method A or 180 g 6 0.5 % for Test Method B, may creasing drop height and is greater with some materials than
be constructed for use if it is necessary to extend the missile with others. Slippage may be checked conveniently during the
course of testing of a routine sample at a missile weight
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
weight beyond that attainable when using all weights in the
standard set. wherein both failures and non-failures are being observed.
Either of the following procedures is effective.
6. Test Specimen
Document Preview
6.1 Test specimens shall be large enough to extend outside
8.2.1 Before dropping the missile on a clamped specimen,
draw a circle on the film using a ball-point pen in contact with
the inside wall of the upper clamp. Apply only the pressure of
the specimen clamp gaskets at all points. The specimens shall
be representative of the film under study and shall be taken the pen itself to the film. (Caution—For safety reasons, the
from the sheet or tube in a manner representative ofASTM sound D1709-03
dart should not be in the dart release mechanism while drawing
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/cb3504f3-72ca-4c2a-bc74-5561c3c1eea2/astm-d1709-03
sampling practice. This is to ensure that the whole of the sheet the circle.) After the dart is dropped and prior to removing the
be represented in the test unless such sampling constitutes a plastic film, draw another circle using a ball-point pen of
variable under study. another color. If the lines are drawn, distinct double lines at any
6.2 The specimens shall be free of pinholes, wrinkles, folds, point on the circumference show that slippage has occurred.
or other obvious imperfections, unless such imperfections 8.2.2 If crocus cloth or sandpaper is affixed to the gaskets to
constitute variables under study. effect greater gripping, determine slippage simply by inspect-
ing the clamped film area after impact for evidence of scratch
7. Conditioning marks produced as slippage occurred.
7.1 Conditioning—Follow the conditioning requirements
specified in the materials specification for the material that is STAIRCASE TESTING TECHNIQUE
being tested. Otherwise, condition the test specimens at
9. Procedure
23 6 2°C [70 to 77°F] and 50 6 5 % relative humidity for not
less than 40 h prior to test in accordance with Procedure A of 9.1 By this technique, a uniform missile weight increment is
Practice D 618, for those tests where conditioning is required. employed during test and the missile weight is changed after
In cases of disagreement, the tolerances shall be 61°C test of each specimen.
[61.8°F] and 62 % relative humidity. 9.2 Select Test Method A or Test Method B for use, as
7.2 Test Conditions—Conduct tests in the standard labora- desired, or as required by the relevant material specification.
tory atmosphere of 23 6 2°C [73.4 6 3.6°F] and 50 6 5 % Set up the apparatus for testing as described in 8.1. If desired,
relative humidity unless otherwise specified in the materials carry out a slippage check as described in 8.2 at some point
specification. In cases of disagreement, the tolerances shall be during the course of testing.
61°C [61.8°F] and 62 % relative humidity. 9.3 Measure and record the average thickness of the test
specimens in the area of impact to the nearest 0.0025 mm
8. Preparation of Apparatus [0.0001 in.].
8.1 Set up the apparatus for testing by Test Method A or by 9.4 For a starting point, select a missile weight near the
Test Method B. expected impact failure weight. Add the necessary number of