ASTM F1306 specifies the test conditions for determining the characterization of flexible barrier films and laminates for slow rate penetration resistance to a driven probe at room temperature. The required calculations for this standard consist of peak force to break, energy to break, and probe penetration from initial contact to break.

The ability to characterize penetration resistance is critical for end-use performance of thin, flexible materials where a sharp object can damage the barrier’s protection. ASTM F1306 testing is common in the packaging industry, which supplies thin films to the food and consumer product sectors. Another relevant industry is battery production, which is interested in quantifying the puncture resistance of the separator films found in their Li-ion batteries.