How to Test the Scratch Resistance of PU Synthetic Leather?

1. Goal

For PU synthetic leather made or bought by Guangzhou ElynLeather Co., Ltd., testing scratch resistance is very important. This helps ensure that the leather used for women’s bags, shoes, phone cases, makeup bags, cosmetic tools, and stationery meets quality standards. It should resist scratches from daily use, keep products durable and looking good, and protect the company’s reputation.

2. Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare tools:You need pencils of different hardness (e.g., H, 2H, 3H), an eraser, a ruler, and a record sheet. The pencils are used to make scratches, the eraser cleans the marks, the ruler helps control scratch length and force, and the sheet records results.

Choose test areas:Pick flat, perfect areas on the PU leather sample. For accurate results, choose at least three different spots on each sample.

Start testing:

lFirst, use the H pencil. Hold it at a 45° angle to the leather surface. Press with about 1 kg of force. Scratch along the ruler edge for 5 cm, at a speed of about 1 cm per second.

lAfter scratching, gently wipe the pencil mark with the eraser. Check if you see a scratch on the surface.

lIf there is no scratch, use a harder pencil (e.g., 2H). Repeat the scratching and checking.

lKeep using harder pencils until a clear scratch appears on the surface.

Record results: Write down the hardness of the pencil that caused the first visible scratch. This hardness is the scratch resistance value of the PU leather sample.

3. Key Points for Each Step

Prepare tools:Make sure the pencil hardness is correct and the tip is sharp. The ruler edge should be straight and smooth. Use a soft eraser that won’t damage the leather surface.

Choose test areas: Avoid textured areas, seams, or places with small damages. These spots may have different scratch resistance and affect results.

Start testing:

lKeeping the 45° angle, steady pressure, and steady speed is very important. If these change, the scratch force becomes uneven, and results may be wrong. For example, too much pressure may cause a scratch too early.

lWhen wiping pencil marks, use medium force. Don’t press too hard (damage the surface) or too soft (leave marks that hide the result).

Record results: Write clearly and accurately. Note the sample source, batch number, etc., so results can be compared and analyzed later.

4. Common Problems and Things to Watch

Common problems:

lTemperature and humidity can affect the leather’s physical properties and test results. For example, high humidity may soften the leather and lower scratch resistance.

Solution:Test under standard conditions (23°C ± 2°C, 50% ± 5% humidity). If not possible, record the actual temperature and humidity for later analysis.

lDifferent testers may use different techniques, causing inconsistent results.

Solution:Train all testers the same way. For large tests, let the same person do all tests, or regularly compare results between testers.

Things to watch:

lAfter testing, store tools properly so pencil tips don’t break and the ruler doesn’t bend. This keeps future tests accurate.

lIf the PU leather has a coating or special treatment, learn about it first. It may affect the test method or how you read results. For example, some coatings may change color after scratching but not actually be scratched — you need to tell the difference.

#PU Synthetic Leather #Scratch Resistance Test #Leather Quality Testing #GuangzhouElyn Leather Co., Ltd.