ASTM D6736-08 (2019) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D6736-08(2019) — Standard Test Method for Burnish Resistance of Latex Paints. This test method specifies a laboratory procedure for producing a controlled burnishing action on dried latex paint films (using an automated scrub/washability machine accessory) and for quantifying the resulting change in surface gloss as an indicator of burnish resistance under dry conditions.

Abstract

This short standard describes how to prepare film drawdowns of latex paints on plastic panels, condition the films, take initial gloss measurements, subject the panels to a defined number of cycles of rubbing on a scrub/washability machine accessory, re-measure gloss and report the percent change in gloss. The method gives a repeatable, quantitative estimate of a paint's tendency to become smoother and glossier (burnished) where it is subjected to rubbing.

General information

• Status: Reapproved 2019 (designation D6736-08(2019)); was active but has been superseded by a 2026 revision (ASTM D6736-26).
• Publication date: Original approval 2008; reapproved 2019 (listed as D6736-08(2019)).
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 87.040 — Paints and varnishes.
• Edition / version: D6736-08 (reapproved 2019) — often cited as D6736-08(2019).
• Number of pages: 3 pages.

Scope

This standard covers a laboratory procedure for measuring the resistance of latex paints to burnishing under dry conditions. It specifies specimen preparation (drawdown on plastic panels), conditioning, initial and final gloss measurement (per ASTM D523), the mechanical rubbing/burnishing action on a scrub/washability machine accessory, and the calculation of percent gloss increase as the test result. Values are expressed in SI units (with inch/mil units sometimes shown for information).

Key topics and requirements

• Purpose: Quantify change in gloss (burnish) caused by rubbing to simulate clothing/furniture contact on interior paints.
• Specimen prep: Draw down test paint lengthwise on plastic scrub panels using a 0.18 mm (7.0 mil) film applicator.
• Conditioning: Allow films to air-dry and condition (commonly one week under agreed/standard conditions) before initial gloss measurement.
• Measurements: Initial and final gloss readings are taken (three equally spaced points along the centerline) using a glossmeter in accordance with ASTM D523.
• Burnishing procedure: Panels are rubbed (typically 20 cycles) on a washability/scrub machine accessory (sandpaper/abrasive accessory kits or cheesecloth/pad attachments as described).
• Result calculation: Percent increase in gloss (final ÷ initial × 100) is reported — higher percentage increases indicate poorer burnish resistance.
• Apparatus & materials: Includes film caster/0.18 mm applicator, washability/scrub machine, specified panels (plastic), glossmeter(s), and accessory abrasive/pad assemblies.

Typical use and users

Used by paint and coatings manufacturers, formulation scientists, quality control and materials testing laboratories, third-party test houses, and specification authors to assess and compare the burnish resistance of interior latex paints and coatings. Typical applications include QC acceptance testing, product development screening, comparative performance evaluation, and specification compliance checks.

Related standards

Referenced and related ASTM documents commonly used with D6736 include: ASTM D523 (Specular Gloss), ASTM D2486 (Scrub Resistance of Wall Paints), and ASTM D3924 (Environment for Conditioning and Testing Paints). The test may be used together with other coating-performance methods for a broader assessment.

Keywords

burnish resistance; latex paint; gloss change; burnishing; scrub machine; drawdown; film applicator; ASTM D6736.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D6736-08(2019) is a short test-method standard that defines a laboratory procedure to evaluate the burnish resistance of latex (water‑based) paints by measuring the change in surface gloss after a defined mechanical rubbing action.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers specimen preparation (drawdown on plastic panels with a 0.18 mm/7.0 mil applicator), conditioning, initial and final gloss measurement (per D523), application of a defined rubbing/burnishing action on a scrub/washability machine accessory (commonly 20 cycles), and reporting of percent gloss increase as the test result.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Paint formulators and manufacturers, QC/testing laboratories, third‑party test houses, and specification writers use it to compare and control the tendency of interior latex paints to become burnished in service.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The D6736-08 method was reapproved in 2019 as D6736-08(2019). It has since been superseded by a newer revision published as ASTM D6736-26 (released 01 January 2026); users referencing the most current normative requirements should consult the D6736-26 text.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: D6736 is a stand‑alone test method within ASTM Committee D01 (Paints and Related Coatings), but it cross‑references other ASTM test methods (for example, D523 for gloss measurement and D3924 for conditioning). It also has historical revisions and interlaboratory precision data (research reports) associated with it.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: burnish resistance, latex paint, gloss, burnishing, abrasion, scrub machine, drawdown, film applicator, ASTM D6736.