Determination of soil adhesion to plastic surfaces using a radioactive tracer.

A quantitative radiochemical test procedure was developed for investigating soil adhesion on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) model materials containing different plasticizers (DOP and Hexamoll) and commercial flooring materials. A repeatable test procedure was developed, including soiling and cleaning with a Mini Cleanability Tester. Three soils all containing 51Cr emitting gamma radiation were used. The materials were subjected to successive soiling and cleaning cycles in order to generate soil accumulation. The type and amount of plasticizer appeared to affect soil adhesion on plastic model materials.