| Abstract: | The use and characterization of metallic paints and plastics have been important, particularly in the automotive industry, throughout the last half of this century. The scientific concepts and terminology of this field are still evolving. The principal appearance characteristics of these materials, when viewed at a distance, are luster and goniochromism. Methods of characterizing and measuring metallic surfaces are being standardized by a committee of the American Society for Testing and Materials. New instrumentation has been developed to provide controlled viewing conditions for judging these materials. Modern portable multi-angle measuring instruments are easy to operate and take measurements very quickly. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. |
