Automated adhesion strength testing system: FAAST
Introducing FAAST, an innovative system for high-throughput, autonomous adhesion strength testing of adhesives and coatings. It enhances testing with standardized methods and real-time visual analysis, offering deeper insights into performance and formulation improvements.
Overview
FAAST (Fast Automated Adhesion Strength Tester) is an innovative system developed to revolutionize the testing of adhesion strength in adhesives and coatings. By providing both standardized testing and real-time visual analysis, FAAST offers enhanced insights into adhesive and coating performance. It is designed for high throughput, with the ability to autonomously evaluate multiple samples simultaneously, thereby increasing statistical validity and reproducibility. This system is particularly valuable for industries requiring precise adhesion quality assessments, such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Adheres to ASTM D903 standards for measuring adhesive bond strength.
- Integrated microscopic camera for real-time observation of peeling and failure mechanisms.
- Optional direct coating application within the testing apparatus, saving time and resources.
- Capable of simultaneously testing 5 samples at each station via a 5-station apparatus with individual mechanical arms and transducers.
- Utilizes advanced lab capabilities such as roll-to-roll coating and mechanical testing to correlate adhesion forces with observed features from images.
Technology readiness level
Currently, FAAST is at Technology Readiness Level 3. Preliminary data from a single station has provided compelling proof of concept, and further development is underway to enhance its capabilities and validate the system across more scenarios.
About Drexel University
Drexel University is a comprehensive private research university in Philadelphia, recognized for an urban, industry‑embedded model anchored by a longstanding cooperative education program. Year‑round co‑ops create a ready talent pipeline and align sponsored research with real‑world needs. The campus sits within an innovation district with co‑located labs and incubators, enabling companies to collaborate on prototyping with faculty. Through the university’s medical college and clinical partners, industry teams can access clinical expertise and translational pathways. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, corporate research agreements, and startup formation.
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