What is ISO 1518‑2 - Paints and varnishes about?
ISO 1518‑2 is part one of a multi-series of international standards on paints and varnishes that determines scratch resistance by variable-loading method.
ISO 1518‑2 specifies a method for determining, using a pointed stylus loaded with a continuously increasing load, the scratch resistance of a single coating of a paint, varnish or related product, or the upper layer of a multicoat system.
Note: Neither ISO 1518‑2 nor ISO 1518‑1 specifies a method using a curved stylus, which is specified in ISO 12137. The choice between the three methods will depend on the particular practical problem.
Who is ISO 1518‑2 - Paints and varnishes for?
ISO 1518‑2 on paints and varnishes is useful for: 
- Paints and varnishes manufacturers
- Constructors
Why should you use ISO 1518‑2 - Paints and varnishes?
Paint is any pigmented liquid, liquefiable, or solid mastic composition that, after application to a substrate in a thin layer, converts to a solid film. It is most commonly used to protect, color, or provide texture to objects.
Varnish is a clear transparent hard protective coating or film. It is not a stain. It usually has a yellowish shade from the manufacturing process and materials used, but it may also be pigmented as desired, and is sold commercially in various shades.
Abrasion and Scratch Resistance describes the ability of a material to resist various types of damage such as scratches, gouges, wear and other flaws.
The test mentioned in ISO 1518‑2 has been found to be useful in comparing the scratch resistance of different coatings. It is most useful in providing relative ratings for a series of coated panels exhibiting significant differences in scratch resistance.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN ISO 1518‑2:2019 supersedes BS EN ISO 1518‑2:2011, which is withdrawn.
BS EN ISO 1518‑2:2019 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN ISO 1518‑2:2011. These are:
- Clause 3, Terms and definitions, has been added
- Clauses 7 and 10 have been aligned with ISO 1518‑1
