ISO 2409:2007 describes a test method for assessing the resistance of paint coatings to separation from substrates when a right-angle lattice pattern is cut into the coating, penetrating through to the substrate. The property measured by this empirical test procedure depends, among other factors, on the adhesion of the coating to either the preceding coat or the substrate. This procedure is not to be regarded, however, as a means of measuring adhesion.

The method described may be used either as a pass/fail test or, where circumstances are appropriate, as a six-step classification test. When applied to a multi-coat system, assessment of the resistance to separation of individual layers of the coating from each other may be made.

The test can be carried out on finished objects and/or on specially prepared test specimens.

The method is not suitable for coatings of total thickness greater than 250 micrometres or for textured coatings.