ASTM D2732

Test Materials: ASTM D2732 is applicable to plastic films and sheeting with a thickness of 0.76 mm (0.030 in.) or less. These materials are tested for their thermal shrinkage properties, particularly relevant for packaging applications that must withstand temperature changes during production and use​.

Test Process: In the test, plastic film samples are heated to a specific temperature while left unrestrained. The process measures the linear shrinkage of the material under controlled thermal conditions. By assessing how the material shrinks in response to heat, manufacturers can determine its behavior during packaging processes like heat sealing​.

Test Result Interpretation: The results are expressed as the percentage of shrinkage in the film. These measurements help manufacturers predict the material’s performance during production and use. Higher shrinkage percentages may indicate unsuitable film for specific packaging needs​.