ASTM E1216 : 11(2016)

Standard Practice for Sampling for Particulate Contamination by Tape Lift

Standard Details

1.1 This practice covers procedures for sampling surfaces to determine the presence of particulate contamination, 5 μm and larger. The practice consists of the application of a pressure-sensitive tape to the surface followed by the removal of particulate contamination with the removal of the tape. The tape with the adhering particles is then mounted on counting slides. Counting and measuring of particles is done by standard techniques.

1.2 This practice describes the materials and equipment required to perform sampling of surfaces for particle counting and sizing.

1.3 The criteria for acceptance or rejection of a part for conformance to surface cleanliness level requirements shall be determined by the user and are not included in this practice.

1.4 This practice is for use on surfaces that are not damaged by the application of adhesive tape. The use of this practice on any surface of any material not previously tested, or for which the susceptibility to damage is unknown, is not recommended. In general, metals, metal plating, and oxide coatings will not be damaged. Application to painted, vapor deposited, and optical coatings should be evaluated before implementing this test.

1.5 This practice provides three methods to evaluate tape lift tests, as follows:

	Sections

Practice A—This method uses light transmitted through the tape and tape adhesive to detect particles that adhere to it.	4 to 6

Practice B—This method uses light transmitted through the tape adhesive after bonding to a base microscope slide, dissolving the tape backing, and a cover slide. The particles are embedded in the adhesive, and air bubbles are eliminated with acrylic mounting media.	7 to 9

Practice C—This method uses light reflected off the tape adhesive to detect particles that adhere to it.	10 to 12

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6.1 Exception—The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.