ISO/IEC 10373-1:2020/Amd 1:2023

Overview

ISO/IEC 10373-1:2020/Amd 1:2023 is an important amendment to the international standard that defines test methods for cards and security devices used in personal identification. This document specifically provides a clarification of the peel strength test method to be applied for ISO/IEC 7810 conformance testing. Peel strength is a critical property that ensures the durability and reliability of identification cards, which are widely used for access control, financial transactions, and personal verification.

The amendment, published in October 2023 by ISO and IEC, refines general test procedures to standardize how peel strength is measured and interpreted, facilitating consistent quality and performance evaluation of ID cards across industries worldwide. This enhances the dependability of security devices in high-stakes applications.

Key Topics

• Peel Strength Test Clarification
  The amendment specifies which peel strength test methods are appropriate for verifying conformity with ISO/IEC 7810 requirements. It clarifies that unless otherwise indicated by the base standard, the designated peel strength method in this amendment must be used. This ensures consistent application of testing protocols.

• General Characteristics of Identification Cards
  The document focuses on the general characteristics of cards and security devices, especially aspects related to physical durability and adhesive strength between layers.

• Conformance Testing for ISO/IEC 7810
  ISO/IEC 7810 defines physical characteristics for identification cards; the amendment directly supports the enforcement of these requirements through improved clarity in the peel strength testing process.

• Test Method Usage Guidance
  It distinguishes between peel strength methods that should or should not be used for ISO/IEC 7810 compliance. For example, peel tests including the card edge are explicitly stated as unsuitable for ISO/IEC 7810 conformance determination unless otherwise specified.

Applications

This standard amendment is pivotal for stakeholders involved in the manufacturing, testing, and certification of:

• Government-issued identification cards (e.g., passports, driver licenses)
• Financial cards such as credit, debit, and prepaid cards
• Access control cards used in offices, universities, and secured facilities
• Health cards and insurance cards requiring reliable durability under frequent use
• Security badges and personal identification devices with embedded electronics or sensitive data layers

By adopting the clarified peel strength test method, manufacturers and testing laboratories can:

• Ensure consistent product quality and durability for identification cards.
• Guarantee compliance with international physical and mechanical requirements.
• Reduce risk of card delamination and failures during use, enhancing security and user confidence.
• Facilitate smoother certification processes aligned with ISO/IEC 7810 standards.

Related Standards

• ISO/IEC 7810: Identification cards - Physical characteristics
  The foundational standard specifying card dimensions, materials, and mechanical durability tests. Amendment 1 to ISO/IEC 10373-1 clarifies test methods for this standard's peel strength verification.

• ISO/IEC 10373-1:2020 - Cards and security devices for personal identification - Test methods - Part 1: General characteristics
  The main test methods document expanded by this amendment.

• ISO/IEC 7816 series
  Related to integrated circuit cards, often referenced alongside physical testing standards for comprehensive card evaluation.

• ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and Part 2
  Guidelines for international standards development and editorial rules referenced in this amendment.

Summary

ISO/IEC 10373-1:2020/Amd 1:2023 enhances international test method standards by providing clear, authoritative guidance on peel strength testing for personal identification cards. This ensures that cards meet physical durability requirements essential for secure and reliable use worldwide. Organizations involved in secure card production and testing should integrate this amendment into their quality assurance practices to maintain compliance with ISO/IEC 7810 and other related standards, ultimately supporting the development of robust, tamper-resistant identification solutions.