1. Measurement Contexts
- Shore Hardness for elastomers, plastics and softer materials, using handheld durometers, stands and supporting items.
- Rubber Hardness (IRHD) when rubber has to be tested to a controlled, specimen-specific method, or the specification already names it.
- Barcol Hardness if you are working on FRP laminates, composites or rigid plastics.
- Metal Hardness for on-site metal testing, and for settling how hardness scales should be reported.
- Hardness Calibration and Standards once you own a tester and need verification items, calibration support and traceable control around it.
For pencil-hardness testing on coated surfaces, continue under Coating Hardness.