Determination of Tensile
Properties
ASTM D 2370
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Scope and Field of Application
This method covers the determination of the elongation,
tensile strength and stiffness (modulus of elasticity) of
coatings when tested as free films. These values are of
particular importance for coatings which are intended for
application to substrates which lack dimensional stability.
Example include:-
- masonry that is prone to cracking.
- wood in environments where its water content can vary.
- elastomeric polymers.
- metallic components subject to flexure in service.
The tensile testing methods described on this page are all
carried out using detached films. If your test coatings are
intended for application to metallic substrates you may wish to
consider cupping or flexibility tests which can be
carried out on coatings applied to substrates.
There is no pass/fail criteria defined in the standard. This
is a matter of agreement between the parties concerned.
The actual standard is a copyright-protected document and we
are not able to provide you with copies. If required however, you
can easily obtain copies from the American
Society for Testing and Materials.
Summary of Method
We carry out these determinations using an Instron Type 1026
tensile tester. This incorporates a highly sensitive electronic
load weighing system with load cells employing strain gauges to
detect the load applied to the specimen under test. The test
specimen is clamped between two grips one of which is attached to
a load cell in a moving crosshead while the other grip is fixed
to the base of the tester. The crosshead is attached to two
vertically mounted screws which are rotated using a synchronous
motor-gearbox assembly. The load applied to the test specimen and
the distance travelled by the crosshead are both displayed on a
chart recorder.
The detached test film is condition for 24 hours under
specified temperature and humidity conditions. Test specimens are
cut from the film and their dimensions are recorded. A specimen
is then clamped between the grips and elongated until it ruptures.
The rate of elongation is between 5 and 100 percent per minute,
the actual value being agreed between interested parties.
The standard describes how the stress-strain curve is
evaluated to determine elongation, tensile strength and stiffness.
Sample Requirements
If you are able to supply samples in the form of detached
films, we require 300 x 300 mm for each coating to be tested. We
can, if required, prepare detached films from liquid coatings. In
this case a 250 ml sample of each coating is required together
with application instructions.
Accreditation
Although PRA is accredited to ISO 17025 by the United Kingdom
Accreditation Service (UKAS),
we are not accredited to carry out this particular test.
Please contact Peter Collins
for further details.
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