Solvent rub resistance tester (MEK test) – SAAB521
The Solvent Rub Tester is usually employed using methylethylketone (MEK) as solvent. The MEK method is applied to paint topcoats and primers.
The test consists of scratch the surface with a gauze soaked with methylethylketone until failure of the film occurs. The type of gauze, the stroke distance, the stroke rate, and approximate applied pressure of scratch are specified depending on the standard. The scratches are counted as double (one rub forward and one rub backward constitutes a double rub).
The test is widely used in paint industry because it provides a quick relative estimation of wear degree without wait for long-term exposure results.