Overview
EN ISO 2813:2014 - "Paints and varnishes - Determination of gloss value at 20°, 60° and 85° (ISO 2813:2014)" defines a standardized method to measure the gloss of coatings. The procedure uses three measurement geometries (20°, 60°, 85°) and is intended primarily for non-textured coatings on flat, opaque substrates. Gloss is reported in gloss units (GU) relative to a polished black glass reference (refractive index ~1.567).
Key topics and requirements
- Measurement geometries: Gloss is determined using specified incident/reflection angles of 20°, 60° and 85°, chosen to capture different gloss ranges and visual perceptions.
- Gloss definition and units: Gloss value is the ratio (×100) of luminous flux reflected by the specimen to that of the reference glass; results are expressed as GU (integer rounding for coatings).
- Apparatus and calibration: Requirements for a calibrated glossmeter, calibration/working standards, zero checks and adjustment procedures are specified to ensure traceable results.
- Test specimens: Guidance on substrates, preparation, coating application, drying/conditioning, and film thickness (see referenced ISO film thickness methods).
- Procedure: Steps include selection of geometry, instrument preparation, measurement sampling and recording of gloss values.
- Precision and performance: The standard includes precision data (repeatability and reproducibility) and informative annexes providing details on precision and statistical results.
- Error sources & reference standards: Normative annexes cover possible measurement errors and calibration standards; informative annexes explain primary reference calculation.
- Scope notes: Suitable for non-textured, plane, opaque substrates; comparative measurements on other specimen types are possible but might not match visual perception.
Applications and practical value
- Quality control and production testing in paint, varnish and coatings manufacturing.
- Product specification, acceptance testing, and comparison of sheen levels (high gloss, semigloss, satin, matt).
- Research & development for formulation optimization and surface finish evaluation.
- Procurement and inspection where consistent, repeatable gloss metrics are required.
- Calibration and verification services for glossmeters and testing laboratories.
Who uses this standard
- Coatings manufacturers, formulators and quality engineers
- Independent testing and calibration laboratories
- Instrument manufacturers (glossmeters)
- Specifiers, architects and procurement professionals concerned with surface appearance
- Regulatory and standards bodies conducting interlaboratory comparisons
Related standards
- ISO 1514 - Standard panels for testing
- ISO 2808 - Determination of film thickness
- ISO 4618 - Paints and varnishes - Terms and definitions
Keywords: EN ISO 2813:2014, gloss measurement, gloss units (GU), 20° 60° 85°, paints and varnishes, glossmeter, calibration, test panels, coatings quality control.
