ASTM D6578/D6578M-13

5.1 Graffiti on building and structures is an ongoing and increasing problem. A number of coatings have been produced that are intended to be resistant to the application of a graffiti marking, or to provide a surface from which such markings can be easily removed. The procedures described in this practice provide a standard set of conditions that can be used to evaluate the graffiti resistance of a surface.

5.2 Graffiti resistance determined according to this practice is applicable to smooth surfaces. Graffiti resistance of the same coatings applied to a rough or textured surface may be lower.

5.3 Graffiti resistance of coatings determined after natural or laboratory accelerated weathering, either before or after marking, conducted according to this practice, is considered as having more weight than graffiti resistance of the same coating determined without weathering. Graffiti resistance of coatings determined after natural weathering should be considered as having more weight than graffiti resistance determined after laboratory accelerated weathering.

1.1 This practice covers a basic method for evaluating graffiti resistance of coatings, and use of this practice to evaluate graffiti resistance of coatings after outdoor or laboratory accelerated exposure (either prior to or after graffiti is applied). Graffiti resistance is based on how a defined set of markings is removed by a defined set of cleaning agents.

1.2 This practice also defines procedures (optional) to evaluate graffiti removal after re-marking with subsequent re-cleaning. It does not address recoatability after a coating is no longer graffiti resistant.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4 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.