What determines if a painted surface is eligible for encapsulation during testing?

When determining if a painted surface is eligible for encapsulation, the key factor is the results from X-cut tests. This type of test assesses the adhesion quality of the paint to the underlying surface. For encapsulation to be a viable option, the paint must firmly adhere to the surface; therefore, passing the X-cut tests ensures that the painted layer is stable and poses minimal risk for further deterioration. If the paint adheres well, encapsulation can be considered an effective measure to mitigate lead exposure, as it effectively seals the hazardous material beneath a protective layer.

Other options present scenarios that may not meet the criteria for encapsulation. For instance, minimal adhesion issues or visible peeling paint suggest that the integrity of the paint job is compromised, which can lead to future hazards. Freshly painted surfaces may not have adequate time to cure or bond properly to the substrate, which could also affect their eligibility for encapsulation. Thus, the results of the X-cut test are crucial in determining whether the surface can be safely sealed with an encapsulating material.