A Modular 90° Test Configuration for Measuring Tape Adhesion on Immovable Substrates

Temporary pavement markings (TPMs) are a critical safety tool for both road workers and drivers during construction on active roadways. TPMs are viscoelastic pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes with a reflective layer embedded in them. To better characterize the adhesive performance of these tapes, a new testing methodology has been developed to perform peel testing of PSA tapes from immovable substrates, which are commonly assessed using 90º peel tests.Work of detachment (W) is calculated as: W=P/b(1-cosθ) where P is the peeling force, b is the tape width, and θ is the peeling angle. Typical 90º peel test fixtures translate the substrate as the force is applied, precluding roadway testing. Our novel methodology allows for peel testing of PSA tapes from immobile substrates through a custom peeling fixture. We have performed tape rate (0.05-10.0 mm/s) and width (6.35-25.40 mm) qualification experiments with transparent office tape to validate the methodology. The methodology is sensitive enough to detect the linear response of W with respect to width and the viscoelastic response of the tape.