Mechanical testing of Polymers

Mechanical testing is without a doubt one of the most vital analytical protocols in probing the performance of a polymeric product. Great insight into a polymer’s behavior can be gained at a fundamental level by performing mechanical tests on the specimen. Some of the advantages of doing mechanical testing is the use of small sample sizes, ease of testing and relatively simple data interpretations. These testing methods allow for quick analysis on whether a production line is still operating within specification and therefore holds financial benefits in preventing the production of faulty product batches. Experiments such as the blending of materials for tailored properties or additive performance evaluation can easily be carried out and monitored with great ease. Hence, mechanical testing plays a significant role at the product development level of various polymer industries. Various mechanical testing methods are used including tensile, abrasion, impact, bend/flex and fatigue testing to name but a few. Tensile and impact testing are most commonly performed and some of the information gained by doing these tests are listed below.

Tensile Testing

· Tensile strength

· Elastic modulus (stiffness/flexibility)

· Yield point (the point at which irreversible deformation occurs)

· Percentage elongation at breaking point

· Shear strength

· Relative bond strength of adhesives

At iPlastikiTech we have access to perform tensile testing below, at, or above room temperature.

Impact testing

· Notched testing (Charpy / Izod)

· Measure energy absorption of samples

· Brittle versus ductile fracture

· Bond strength of adhesives

These tests are relatively straightforward and can easily be tailored to any needs. As Polymer Science consultants, we are more than willing to assist with any request or troubleshooting queries.

Figure of a typical test specimen (left) and tensile graph (right).