ASTM D882-18

Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Tensile properties determined by this test method are of value for the identification and characterization of materials for control and specification purposes. Tensile properties can vary with specimen thickness, method of preparation, speed of testing, type of grips used, and manner of measuring extension. Consequently, where precise comparative results are desired, these factors must be carefully controlled. This test method shall be used for referee purposes, unless otherwise indicated in particular material specifications. For many materials, there can be a specification that requires the use of this test method, but with some procedural modifications that take precedence when adhering to the specification. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to that material specification before using this test method. Table 1 in Classification D4000 lists the ASTM materials standards that currently exist.  
5.2 Tensile properties can be utilized to provide data for research and development and engineering design as well as quality control and specification. However, data from such tests cannot be considered significant for applications differing widely from the force-time scale of the test employed.  
5.3 The tensile modulus of elasticity is an index of the stiffness of thin plastic sheeting. The reproducibility of test results is good when precise control is maintained over all test conditions. When different materials are being compared for stiffness, specimens of identical dimensions must be employed.  
5.4 The tensile energy to break (TEB) is the total energy absorbed per unit volume of the specimen up to the point of rupture. In some texts this property has been referred to as toughness. It is used to evaluate materials that are subjected to heavy abuse or that can stall web transport equipment in the event of a machine malfunction in end-use applications. However, the rate of strain, specimen parameters, and especially flaws can cause large variations in the resul...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of tensile properties of plastics in the form of thin sheeting and films (less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness).  
Note 1: Film is defined in Terminology D883 as an optional term for sheeting having a nominal thickness no greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).
Note 2: Tensile properties of plastics 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) or greater in thickness shall be determined according to Test Method D638.  
1.2 This test method can be used to test all plastics within the thickness range described and the capacity of the machine employed.  
1.3 Specimen extension can be measured by grip separation, extension indicators, or displacement of gage marks.  
1.4 The procedure for determining the tensile modulus of elasticity is included at one strain rate.  
Note 3: The modulus determination is generally based on the use of grip separation as a measure of extension; however, the desirability of using extensometers, as described in 6.2, is recognized and provision for the use of such instrumentation is incorporated in the procedure.  
1.5 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and appropriate for use in engineering design.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are provided for information only.  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 4: This test method is similar to ISO 527-3, but is not considered technically equivalent. ISO 527-3 allows for additional specimen configurations, specifies different test speeds, and requires an extensometer or gage marks on the specimen.  
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally r...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jul-2018
• ICS: 83.140.10 - Films and sheets
• Technical Committee: D20 - Plastics
• Drafting Committee: D20.19 - Film, Sheeting, and Molded Products

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D883-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D883-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D883-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D883-19c - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM D883-18a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM D883-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM D6287-17 - Standard Practice for Cutting Film and Sheeting Test Specimens
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM E2935-17 - Standard Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in Laboratory Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM D883-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM E2935-16 - Standard Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in Laboratory Applications
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2016
• Refers: ASTM E2935-15 - Standard Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in Laboratory Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2015
• Refers: ASTM E2935-14 - Standard Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in Laboratory Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2014
• Refers: ASTM E4-14 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2014

Overview

ASTM D882-18 – Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting, developed by ASTM International, specifies a reliable and standardized method to determine the tensile properties of plastics in the form of thin sheeting and films. This test method is widely used across industries to ensure consistent material characterization, aid in specification compliance, and support research and quality control efforts. The standard applies to thin plastic films and sheeting less than 1.0 mm in thickness, providing critical data such as tensile strength, elongation, modulus of elasticity, and tensile energy to break.

Key Topics

• Tensile Testing of Thin Plastic Sheeting: ASTM D882-18 details procedures for testing plastic films and sheets, focusing on those less than 1.0 mm thick. For thicker materials, ASTM D638 should be used.
• Material Identification and Characterization: The method provides essential data used for material identification, quality control, and engineering specifications.
• Controlled Test Parameters: Outcomes may vary by specimen thickness, preparation method, test speed, grip type, and extension measurement technique. For precise comparisons, these variables must be consistent.
• Mechanical Properties Measured:
  • Tensile Strength: Maximum load per unit area or width.
  • Elongation: Deformation the material undergoes before breaking.
  • Tensile Modulus (Elastic Modulus): Indicator of material stiffness.
  • Tensile Energy to Break (TEB): Total energy absorbed before rupture, useful for assessing toughness.
• Testing Apparatus: Stipulates requirements for mechanical testing machines, grips, extensometers, micrometers, and specimen cutters.
• Reporting and Reproducibility: Provides guidelines for documenting test conditions, specimen details, and statistical analysis to achieve high reproducibility and traceability.

Applications

The ASTM D882-18 test method is essential for:

• Material Selection: Assists engineers and product developers in evaluating and comparing the mechanical properties of various plastic films and sheets for specific applications.
• Quality Control: Enables manufacturers to maintain product consistency and meet regulatory or internal specifications for thin plastics.
• Specification Compliance: Supports the creation and verification of material certifications and data sheets in accordance with industry requirements.
• Research and Development: Offers foundational data for innovation in packaging, lamination, printed electronics, and polymer blends.
• Performance Assessment: Evaluates durability and toughness, which is especially valuable for films exposed to stress, such as packaging or industrial liners.

This method is widely used in industries including packaging, medical device manufacturing, agriculture, electronics, and automotive sectors, wherever control over plastic film properties is crucial.

Related Standards

• ASTM D638: Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics (for plastics 1.0 mm or thicker)
• ASTM D618: Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
• ASTM D883: Terminology Relating to Plastics
• ASTM D4000: Classification for Specifying Plastic Materials
• ASTM D5947: Methods for Measuring Physical Dimensions of Solid Plastics
• ASTM D6287: Practice for Cutting Film and Sheeting Test Specimens
• ASTM D6988: Guide for Determining Thickness of Plastic Film Test Specimens
• ISO 527-3: Plastics - Determination of Tensile Properties (Note: similar but not technically equivalent to ASTM D882-18)

Practical Value

By adhering to ASTM D882-18, testing laboratories, manufacturers, and developers ensure that plastic film properties are determined consistently and accurately. This fosters high confidence in released data, facilitating global trade, regulatory compliance, and robust product development workflows. Following this standard is critical for anyone needing reliable and reproducible tensile property data for thin plastic materials.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D882 − 18
Standard Test Method for
Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D882; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
These test methods have been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense to replace Method 1013 of Federal Test
Method Standard 406.
1. Scope* 1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1 This test method covers the determination of tensile
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
propertiesofplasticsintheformofthinsheetingandfilms(less
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness).
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
NOTE 1—Film is defined in Terminology D883 as an optional term for
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
sheeting having a nominal thickness no greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).
NOTE 2—Tensile properties of plastics 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) or greater in
2. Referenced Documents
thickness shall be determined according to Test Method D638.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2 This test method can be used to test all plastics within
D618Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
the thickness range described and the capacity of the machine
D638Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
employed.
D883Terminology Relating to Plastics
1.3 Specimenextensioncanbemeasuredbygripseparation,
D4000Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materi-
extension indicators, or displacement of gage marks.
als
1.4 The procedure for determining the tensile modulus of D5947Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
Plastics Specimens
elasticity is included at one strain rate.
D6287Practice for Cutting Film and Sheeting Test Speci-
NOTE 3—The modulus determination is generally based on the use of
mens
grip separation as a measure of extension; however, the desirability of
D6988GuideforDeterminationofThicknessofPlasticFilm
using extensometers, as described in 6.2, is recognized and provision for
the use of such instrumentation is incorporated in the procedure.
Test Specimens
E4Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
1.5 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and
E691Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
appropriate for use in engineering design.
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
E2935 Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in
standard. The values in parentheses are provided for informa-
Laboratory Applications
tion only.
2.2 ISO Standard:
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
ISO 527-3Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Part 3: Test Conditions for Films and Sheets
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3. Terminology
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 Definitions:
NOTE4—ThistestmethodissimilartoISO527-3,butisnotconsidered 3.1.1 For definitions of terms that appear in this test method
technically equivalent. ISO 527-3 allows for additional specimen
relating to plastics, refer to Terminology D883.
configurations, specifies different test speeds, and requires an extensom-
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
eter or gage marks on the specimen.
1 2
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
PlasticsandarethedirectresponsibilityofSubcommitteeD20.19onFilm,Sheeting, contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
and Molded Products. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2018. Published August 2018. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as D882- 12. DOI: Available fromAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/D0882-18. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D882 − 18
3.2.1 Definitions of terms and symbols relating to tension cially flaws can cause large variations in the results. In that
testing of plastics appear in the Annex to Test Method D638. sense, caution is advised in utilizing TEB test results for
3.2.2 line grips—grips having faces designed to concentrate end-use design applications.
theentiregrippingforcealongasinglelineperpendiculartothe
5.5 Materialsthatfailbytearinggiveanomalousdatawhich
direction of testing stress. This is usually done by combining
cannot be compared with those from normal failure.
one standard flat face and an opposing face from which
protrudes a half-round.
6. Apparatus
3.2.3 flat grips—grips having flat faces and lined with thin
6.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine of the constant
rubber, crocus-cloth, emery cloth, or pressure-sensitive tape.
rate-of-crosshead-movement type and comprising essentially
3.2.4 tear failure—atensilefailurecharacterizedbyfracture
the following:
initiating at one edge of the specimen and progressing across
6.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary
the specimen at a rate slow enough to produce an anomalous
member carrying one grip.
force-deformation curve.
6.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying a
second grip.
4. Summary of Test Method
6.1.3 Grips—A set of grips for holding the test specimen
4.1 Aspecimenofuniformcross-sectionisloadedintension
between the fixed member and the movable member of the
via means of a mechanical testing machine. Force and or
testing machine; grips can be either the fixed or self-aligning
extension are recorded during the test. Various techniques for
type. In either case, the gripping system must minimize both
specimen gripping and extension measurement are addressed.
slippage and uneven stress distribution.
Depending on the elongation of the material and the desired
6.1.3.1 Fixed grips are rigidly attached to the fixed and
properties to be gained from the testing, various combinations
movable members of the testing machine. When this type of
ofgripseparationandtestspeedareutilized.Propertiessuchas
gripisused,caremustbetakentoensurethatthetestspecimen
tensile stress, elongation and modulus can be calculated.
is inserted and clamped so that the long axis of the test
specimen coincides with the direction of pull through the
5. Significance and Use
center line of the grip assembly.
5.1 Tensile properties determined by this test method are of
6.1.3.2 Self-aligning grips are attached to the fixed and
valuefortheidentificationandcharacterizationofmaterialsfor
movablemembersofthetestingmachineinsuchamannerthat
control and specification purposes. Tensile properties can vary
they will move freely into alignment as soon as a force is
with specimen thickness, method of preparation, speed of
applied so that the long axis of the test specimen will coincide
testing,typeofgripsused,andmannerofmeasuringextension.
with the direction of the applied pull through the center line of
Consequently, where precise comparative results are desired,
the grip assembly. The specimens must be aligned as perfectly
these factors must be carefully controlled. This test method
as possible with the direction of pull so that no rotary motion
shall be used for referee purposes, unless otherwise indicated
will cause slippage to occur in the grips; there is a limit to the
in particular material specifications. For many materials, there
amountofmisalignmentself-aligninggripswillaccommodate.
can be a specification that requires the use of this test method,
6.1.3.3 The test specimen shall be held in such a way that
but with some procedural modifications that take precedence
slippage relative to the grips is prevented insofar as possible.
whenadheringtothespecification.Therefore,itisadvisableto
Grips lined with thin rubber, crocus-cloth, emery cloth, or
refer to that material specification before using this test
pressure-sensitive tape as well as file-faced or serrated grips
method. Table 1 in Classification D4000 lists the ASTM
have been successfully used for many materials.The choice of
materials standards that currently exist.
grip surface will depend on the material tested, thickness, etc.
Line grips padded on the round face with 0.75-1.00 mm
5.2 Tensile properties can be utilized to provide data for
(0.030-0.040in.)blottingpaperorfilterpaperhavebeenfound
research and development and engineering design as well as
superior. Air-actuated grips have been found advantageous,
quality control and specification. However, data from such
particularly in the case of materials that tend to “neck” into the
tests cannot be considered significant for applications differing
grips, since pressure is maintained at all times (see Notes 5-7).
widely from the force-time scale of the test employed.
In cases where samples frequently fail at the edge of the grips,
5.3 The tensile modulus of elasticity is an index of the
it could be advantageous to slightly increase the radius of
stiffness of thin plastic sheeting. The reproducibility of test
curvatureoftheedgeswherethegripscomeincontactwiththe
results is good when precise control is maintained over all test
test area of the specimen.
conditions. When different materials are being compared for
NOTE5—Cautionneedstobetakenwhenchoosingthetypeofgripsand
stiffness,specimensofidenticaldimensionsmustbeemployed.
the type of grip surfaces to use for testing specimens films composed of
5.4 The tensile energy to break (TEB) is the total energy
high strength LLDPE and VLDPE resins. Test results tend to differ more
absorbed per unit volume of the specimen up to the point of whencomparingthesetypesofspecimensfilmstestedwiththegripslined
with different materials.
rupture. In some texts this property has been referred to as
NOTE 6—The gage of pressure sensitive tape, thin rubber, crocus-cloth,
toughness. It is used to evaluate materials that are subjected to
and emery cloth needs to be adequate enough to prevent slipping and
heavy abuse or that can stall web transport equipment in the
premature failures of the test specimens (for example, pressure sensitive
event of a machine malfunction in end-use applications.
tape is used on the surface of the grips: the test specimen can may begin
However, the rate of strain, specimen parameters, and espe- to tear at the edge of the grips during the test if the tape is too thin.).
D882 − 18
NOTE 7—The grit size of crocus-cloth and emery cloth is suggested to
6.5 Specimen Cutter—Refer to Practice D6287 for the
be at least 800.The use of these materials helps to prevent test specimens
apparatus and techniques for cutting film and sheeting used in
from slipping in the grips. One must be cautious when using these
this test method.
materials so that premature failures of the test specimens do not occur.
6.5.1 Devices that use razor blades have proven especially
6.1.4 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting
suitable for materials having an elongation-at-fracture above
to the movable member a uniform, controlled velocity with
10 to 20%.
respect to the stationary member. The velocity shall be regu-
6.5.2 The use of a punch press or a striking die is not
lated as specified in Section 10.
recommended because of their tendency to produce poor and
6.1.5 Force Indicator—A suitable force-indicating mecha-
inconsistent specimen edges.
nism capable of showing the total tensile force carried by the
6.5.3 The use of a cutting template and a single razor blade
test specimen held by the grips. This mechanism shall be
is not recommended as it will affect the parallelism of the test
essentiallyfreeofinertiallagatthespecifiedrateoftesting(see
specimen.
Note 8). Unless a suitable extensometer is used (see 6.2), the
motion of the weighing system shall not exceed 2% of the
7. Test Specimens
specimen extension within the range being measured. The
7.1 The test specimens shall consist of strips of uniform
force indicator shall determine the tensile force applied to the
width and thickness at least 50 mm (2 in.) longer than the grip
specimen with an accuracy of 61% of the indicated value, or
separation used.
better. The accuracy of the testing machine shall be verified in
accordance with Practices E4. 7.2 The nominal width of the specimens shall be not less
than 5.0 mm (0.20 in.) or greater than 25.4 mm (1.0 in.).
6.1.6 Crosshead Extension Indicator—Asuitableextension-
indicating mechanism capable of showing the amount of
7.3 A width-thickness ratio of at least eight shall be used.
change in the separation of the grips, that is, crosshead
Narrow specimens magnify effects of edge strains or flaws, or
movement.This mechanism shall be essentially free of inertial
both.
lag at the specified rate of testing (see Note 8) and shall
7.4 The utmost care shall be exercised in cutting specimens
indicatethecrossheadmovementwithanaccuracyof 61%of
to prevent nicks and tears that cause premature failures (see
the indicated value, or better.
Note 9). The edges shall be parallel to within 5% of the width
6.2 Extensometer (Optional)—A suitable instrument used
over the length of the specimen between the grips.
for determining the distance between two designated points on
NOTE9—Microscopicalexaminationofspecimenscanbeusedtodetect
the test specimen as the specimen is stretched. The use of this
flaws due to sample or specimen preparation.
type of instrument is optional and is not required in this test
7.5 Test specimens shall be selected so that thickness is
method.Thisapparatus,ifemployed,shallbesodesignedasto
uniform to within 10% of the average thickness over the
minimize stress on the specimen at the contact points of the
length of the specimen between the grips in the case of
specimen and the instrument (see 9.3). It is desirable that this
specimens 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) or less in thickness and to
instrument automatically record the distance, or any change in
within 5% in the case of specimens greater than 0.25 mm
it, as a function of the force on the test specimen or of the
(0.010 in.) in thickness but less than 1.00 mm (0.040 in.) in
elapsedtimefromthestartofthetest,orboth.Ifonlythelatter
thickness.
isobtained,force-timedatamustalsobetaken.Thisinstrument
must be essentially free of inertial lag at the specified speed of
NOTE 10—In cases where thickness variations are in excess of those
testing (see Note 8).
recommended in 7.5, results tend not to be characteristic of the material
under test.
6.2.1 Modulus of Elasticity and Low-Extension
Measurements—Extensometers used for modulus of elasticity
7.6 Ifthematerialissuspectedofbeinganisotropic,twosets
and low-extension (less than 20% elongation) measurements
of test specimens shall be prepared having their long axes
shall, at a minimum, be accurate to 61% and comply with the
respectivelyparallelwithandnormaltothesuspecteddirection
requirementssetforthinPracticeE83foraClassCinstrument.
of anisotropy.
6.2.2 High-Extension Measurements—Instrumentation and
7.7 For tensile modulus of elasticity determinations, a
measuring techniques used for high-extension (20% elonga-
specimen gage length of 250 mm (10 in.) shall be considered
tion or greater) measurements shall be accurate to 610% of
asstandard.Thislengthisusedinordertominimizetheeffects
the indicated value, or better.
ofgripslippageontestresults.Whenthislengthisnotfeasible,
NOTE 8—A sufficiently high response speed in the indicating and test sections as short as 100 mm (4 in.) can be used if it has
recording system for the force and extension data is essential. The
been shown that results are not appreciably affected. However,
response speed required of the system will depend in part on the material
the 250-mm (10-in.) gage length shall be used for referee
tested (high or low elongation) and the rate of straining.
purposes. The speed of testing of shorter specimens must be
6.3 Thickness Gauge—A dead-weight dial or digital mi-
adjusted in order for the strain rate to be equivalent to that of
crometer as described in Test Methods D5947 or D6988 as
the standard specimen.
appropriateforthematerialorspecimengeometrybeingtested.
6.4 Width-Measuring Devices—Suitable test scales or other
widthmeasuringdevicescapableofmeasuring0.25mm(0.010
in.) or less.
D882 − 18
NOTE11—Tworoundrobintests haveshownthat,formaterialsofless
effect is being studied. However, jaw breaks (failures at the
than0.25-mm(0.010in.)inthickness,linegripspaddedontheroundside
grip contact point) are acceptable if it has been shown that
with 1.0-mm (0.040-in.) blotting paper give the same results with a
results from such tests are in essential agreement with values
100-mm (4-in.) test section as a 250-mm (10-in.) test section produces
obtained from breaks occurring within the gage length.
with flat-face grips.
NOTE 13—In the cases of some materials, examination of specimens,
NOTE 12—Excessive jaw slippage becomes increasingly difficult to
overcome in cases where high modulus materials are tested in thicknesses prior to and following testing, under crossed optical polarizers (polarizing
films) provides a useful means of detecting flaws, which can be, or are,
greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).
responsible for premature failure.
8. Conditioning
10. Speed of Testing
8.1 Conditioning—Condition the test specimens at 23 6
2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) and 50 6 10 % relative humidity for not
10.1 Thespeedoftestingistherateofseparationofthetwo
less than 40 h prior to test in accordance with Procedure A of
members (or grips) of the testing machine when running idle
Practice D618 unless otherwise specified by agreement or the
(under no force). This rate of separation shall be maintained
relevant ASTM material specification. In cases of
within 5% of the no-force value when running under full-
disagreement, the tolerances shall be 61°C (61.8°F) and
capacity force.
65% relative humidity.
10.2 The speed of testing shall be calculated from the
8.2 Test Conditions—Conductthetestsat23 62°C(73.4 6
required initial strain rate as specified in Table 1. The rate of
3.6°F) and 50 6 10% relative humidity unless otherwise
gripseparationshallbedeterminedforthepurposeofthesetest
specified by agreement or the relevant ASTM material speci-
methods from the initial strain rate as follows:
fication.Incasesofdisagreement,thetolerancesshallbe 61°C
A 5 BC (1)
(61.8°F) and 65% relative humidity.
where:
9. Number of Test Specimens
A = rate of grip separation, mm (or in.)/min,
9.1 Inthecaseofisotropicmaterials,atleastfivespecimens B = initial distance between grips, mm (or in.), and
C = initial strain rate, mm/mm·min (or in./in.·min).
shall be tested from each sample.
9.2 In the case of anisotropic materials, at least ten 10.3 The initial strain rate shall be as in Table 1 unless
specimens, five normal and five parallel with the principal axis otherwise indicated by the specification for the material being
of anisotropy, shall be tested from each sample. tested.
9.3 (Optional) It is acceptable to test a reduced number of
NOTE 14—Results obtained at different initial strain rates are not
test specimens: comparable;consequently,wheredirectcomparisonsbetweenmaterialsin
various elongation classes are required, a single initial strain rate must be
(1)No less than three test specimens shall be tested.
used. For some materials it is advisable to select the strain rates on the
(2)No less than six test specimens in the case of anisotro-
basis of percent elongation at yield.
picmaterials,threenormalandthreeparallelwiththeprinciple
10.4 In cases where conflicting material classification, as
axis of anisotropy, shall be tested.
determined by percent elongation at break values, results in a
(3)Allowed for in-line quality control sampling.
choice of strain rates, the lower rate shall be used.
(4)Allowed for samples not sufficient in size to provide a
minimum of five test specimens (10 test specimens for aniso-
10.5 If modulus values are being determined, separate
tropic materials).
specimens shall be used whenever strain rates and specimen
(5)Standard deviation is not to be calculated or reported
dimensions are not the same as those employed in the test for
due to the reduced number of data points.
other tensile properties.
9.4 Specimens that fail at some obvious flaw or that fail
11. Procedure
outside the gage length shall be discarded and retests made,
unless such flaws or conditions constitute a variable whose
11.1 Select a force range such that specimen failure occurs
within its upper two thirds.Afew trial runs could be necessary
to select a proper combination of force range and specimen
Supporting data have been filed atASTM International Headquarters and may
width.
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D20-1058.
A
TABLE 1 Crosshead Speeds and Initial Grip Separation
Initial Strain Rate,
Initial Grip Separation Rate of Grip Separation
Percent Elongation
mm/mm·min
at Break
mm in. mm/min in./min
(in./in.·min)
Modulus of Elasticity Determination
0.1 250 10 25 1.0
Determinations other than Elastic Modulus
Less than 20 0.1 125 5 12.5 0.5
20 to 100 0.5 100 4 50 2.0
Greater than 100 10.0 50 2 500 20.0
A
See Fig. A3.1 and Fig. A3.2 in Annex A3 to set the initial grip separation correctly.
D882 − 18
11.2 Measure the cross-sectional area of the specimen at 11.9 In the case of materials being evaluated for secant
three points along its length (center and within approximately modulus, the test can be discontinued when the specified
13 mm of each end of the gage length). Measure the width to extension is reached.
an accuracy of 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) or better. Measure the
11.10 If tensile energy to break is being determined, some
thickness to an accuracy of 0.0025 mm (0.0001 in.) or better
provision must be made for integration of the stress-strain
forspecimenslessthan0.25mm(0.010in.)inthicknessandto
curve. This can be either an electronic integration during the
an accuracy of 1% or better for specimens greater than 0.25
testorasubsequentdeterminationfromtheareaofthefinished
mm (0.010 in.) but less than 1.0 mm (0.040 in.) in thickness.
stress-strain curve (see Annex A2).
11.3 Set the initial grip separation in accordance with Table
12. Calculation
1.
12.1 Toe compensation shall be made in accordance with
11.4 Set the rate of grip separation to give the desired strain
Annex A1 unless it can be shown that the toe region of the
rate, based on the initial distance between the grips, in
curveisnotduetothetakeupofslack,seatingofthespecimen,
accordance with Table 1. Zero the calibrated force weighing
or other artifact, but rather is an authentic material response.
system, extension indicator(s) and recording system.
12.2 Breaking Factor (nominal) shall be calculated by
NOTE 15—Extensometers can be used for modulus of elasticity deter-
dividing the maximum force by the original average width of
minationswiththeexpectationofobtainingmoreaccuratevaluesthancan
the specimen.The result shall be expressed in force per unit of
be obtained using grip separation as the effective gage length. Precautions
must be taken to ensure that extensometer slippage and undue stressing of width, usually newtons per metre (or pounds per inch)
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D882 − 12 D882 − 18
Standard Test Method for
Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic Sheeting
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D882; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
These test methods have been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense to replace Method 1013 of Federal Test
Method Standard 406.
1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the determination of tensile properties of plastics in the form of thin sheeting and films (less than
1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness).
NOTE 1—Film is defined in Terminology D883 as an optional term for sheeting having a nominal thickness no greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).
NOTE 2—Tensile properties of plastics 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) or greater in thickness shall be determined according to Test Method D638.
1.2 This test method can be used to test all plastics within the thickness range described and the capacity of the machine
employed.
1.3 Specimen extension can be measured by grip separation, extension indicators, or displacement of gage marks.
1.4 The procedure for determining the tensile modulus of elasticity is included at one strain rate.
NOTE 3—The modulus determination is generally based on the use of grip separation as a measure of extension; however, the desirability of using
extensometers, as described in 5.26.2, is recognized and provision for the use of such instrumentation is incorporated in the procedure.
1.5 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and appropriate for use in engineering design.
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are provided for information only.
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
NOTE 4—This test method is similar to ISO 527-3, but is not considered technically equivalent. ISO 527-3 allows for additional specimen
configurations, specifies different test speeds, and requires an extensometer or gage marks on the specimen.
NOTE 4—This test method is similar to ISO 527-3, but is not considered technically equivalent. ISO 527-3 allows for additional specimen
configurations, specifies different test speeds, and requires an extensometer or gage marks on the specimen.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D4000 Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materials
D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid Plastics Specimens
D6287 Practice for Cutting Film and Sheeting Test Specimens
D6988 Guide for Determination of Thickness of Plastic Film Test Specimens
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.19 on Film, Sheeting, and
Molded Products.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2012Aug. 1, 2018. Published September 2012August 2018. Originally approved in 1946. Last previous edition approved in 20102012
as D882 - 10.12. DOI: 10.1520/D0882-12.10.1520/D0882-18.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D882 − 18
E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
E2935 Practice for Conducting Equivalence Testing in Laboratory Applications
2.2 ISO Standard:
ISO 527-3 Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—Part 3: Test Conditions for Films and Sheets
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms that appear in this test method relating to plastics, refer to Terminology D883.
3.2 Definitions:Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 Definitions of terms and symbols relating to tension testing of plastics appear in the Annex to Test Method D638.
3.2.2 line grips—grips having faces designed to concentrate the entire gripping force along a single line perpendicular to the
direction of testing stress. This is usually done by combining one standard flat face and an opposing face from which protrudes
a half-round.
3.2.3 flat grips—grips having flat faces and lined with thin rubber, crocus-cloth, emery cloth, or pressure-sensitive tape.
3.2.4 tear failure—a tensile failure characterized by fracture initiating at one edge of the specimen and progressing across the
specimen at a rate slow enough to produce an anomalous load-deformationforce-deformation curve.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A specimen of uniform cross-section is loaded in tension via means of a mechanical testing machine. Force and or extension
are recorded during the test. Various techniques for specimen gripping and extension measurement are addressed. Depending on
the elongation of the material and the desired properties to be gained from the testing, various combinations of grip separation and
test speed are utilized. Properties such as tensile stress, elongation and modulus can be calculated.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Tensile properties determined by this test method are of value for the identification and characterization of materials for
control and specification purposes. Tensile properties can vary with specimen thickness, method of preparation, speed of testing,
type of grips used, and manner of measuring extension. Consequently, where precise comparative results are desired, these factors
must be carefully controlled. This test method shall be used for referee purposes, unless otherwise indicated in particular material
specifications. For many materials, there can be a specification that requires the use of this test method, but with some procedural
modifications that take precedence when adhering to the specification. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to that material
specification before using this test method. Table 1 in Classification D4000 lists the ASTM materials standards that currently exist.
5.2 Tensile properties can be utilized to provide data for research and development and engineering design as well as quality
control and specification. However, data from such tests cannot be considered significant for applications differing widely from
the load-timeforce-time scale of the test employed.
5.3 The tensile modulus of elasticity is an index of the stiffness of thin plastic sheeting. The reproducibility of test results is good
when precise control is maintained over all test conditions. When different materials are being compared for stiffness, specimens
of identical dimensions must be employed.
5.4 The tensile energy to break (TEB) is the total energy absorbed per unit volume of the specimen up to the point of rupture.
In some texts this property has been referred to as toughness. It is used to evaluate materials that are subjected to heavy abuse or
that can stall web transport equipment in the event of a machine malfunction in end-use applications. However, the rate of strain,
specimen parameters, and especially flaws can cause large variations in the results. In that sense, caution is advised in utilizing
TEB test results for end-use design applications.
5.5 Materials that fail by tearing give anomalous data which cannot be compared with those from normal failure.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine of the constant rate-of-crosshead-movement type and comprising essentially the
following:
6.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary member carrying one grip.
6.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying a second grip.
6.1.3 Grips—A set of grips for holding the test specimen between the fixed member and the movable member of the testing
machine; grips can be either the fixed or self-aligning type. In either case, the gripping system must minimize both slippage and
uneven stress distribution.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
D882 − 18
6.1.3.1 Fixed grips are rigidly attached to the fixed and movable members of the testing machine. When this type of grip is used,
care must be taken to ensure that the test specimen is inserted and clamped so that the long axis of the test specimen coincides
with the direction of pull through the center line of the grip assembly.
6.1.3.2 Self-aligning grips are attached to the fixed and movable members of the testing machine in such a manner that they
will move freely into alignment as soon as a loadforce is applied so that the long axis of the test specimen will coincide with the
direction of the applied pull through the center line of the grip assembly. The specimens must be aligned as perfectly as possible
with the direction of pull so that no rotary motion will cause slippage to occur in the grips; there is a limit to the amount of
misalignment self-aligning grips will accommodate.
6.1.3.3 The test specimen shall be held in such a way that slippage relative to the grips is prevented insofar as possible. Grips
lined with thin rubber, crocus-cloth, emery cloth, or pressure-sensitive tape as well as file-faced or serrated grips have been
successfully used for many materials. The choice of grip surface will depend on the material tested, thickness, etc. Line grips
padded on the round face with 0.75-1.00 mm (0.030-0.040 in.) blotting paper or filter paper have been found superior. Air-actuated
grips have been found advantageous, particularly in the case of materials that tend to “neck” into the grips, since pressure is
maintained at all times (see Notes 5-7). In cases where samples frequently fail at the edge of the grips, it could be advantageous
to slightly increase the radius of curvature of the edges where the grips come in contact with the test area of the specimen.
NOTE 5—Caution needs to be taken when choosing the type of grips and the type of grip surfaces to use for testing specimens films composed of high
strength LLDPE and VLDPE resins. Test results tend to differ more when comparing these types of specimens films tested with the grips lined with
different materials.
NOTE 6—The gage of pressure sensitive tape, thin rubber, crocus-cloth, and emery cloth needs to be adequate enough to prevent slipping and premature
failures of the test specimens (for example, pressure sensitive tape is used on the surface of the grips: the test specimen can may begin to tear at the edge
of the grips during the test if the tape is too thin.).
NOTE 7—The grit size of crocus-cloth and emery cloth is suggested to be at least 800. The use of these materials helps to prevent test specimens from
slipping in the grips. One must be cautious when using these materials so that premature failures of the test specimens do not occur.
6.1.4 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting to the movable member a uniform, controlled velocity with respect
to the stationary member. The velocity shall be regulated as specified in Section 910.
6.1.5 LoadForce Indicator—A suitable load-indicatingforce-indicating mechanism capable of showing the total tensile
loadforce carried by the test specimen held by the grips. This mechanism shall be essentially free of inertial lag at the specified
rate of testing (see Note 8). Unless a suitable extensometer is used (see 5.26.2), the motion of the weighing system shall not exceed
2 % of the specimen extension within the range being measured. The loadforce indicator shall determine the tensile loadforce
applied to the specimen with an accuracy of 61 % of the indicated value, or better. The accuracy of the testing machine shall be
verified in accordance with Practices E4.
6.1.6 Crosshead Extension Indicator—A suitable extension-indicating mechanism capable of showing the amount of change in
the separation of the grips, that is, crosshead movement. This mechanism shall be essentially free of inertial lag at the specified
rate of testing (see Note 8) and shall indicate the crosshead movement with an accuracy of 61 % of the indicated value, or better.
6.2 Extensometer (Optional)—A suitable instrument used for determining the distance between two designated points on the test
specimen as the specimen is stretched. The use of this type of instrument is optional and is not required in this test method. This
apparatus, if employed, shall be so designed as to minimize stress on the specimen at the contact points of the specimen and the
instrument (see 8.39.3). It is desirable that this instrument automatically record the distance, or any change in it, as a function of
the loadforce on the test specimen or of the elapsed time from the start of the test, or both. If only the latter is obtained,
load-timeforce-time data must also be taken. This instrument must be essentially free of inertial lag at the specified speed of testing
(see Note 8).
6.2.1 Modulus of Elasticity and Low-Extension Measurements—Extensometers used for modulus of elasticity and low-
extension (less than 20 % elongation) measurements shall, at a minimum, be accurate to 61 % and comply with the requirements
set forth in Practice E83 for a Class C instrument.
6.2.2 High-Extension Measurements—Instrumentation and measuring techniques used for high-extension (20 % elongation or
greater) measurements shall be accurate to 610 % of the indicated value, or better.
NOTE 8—A sufficiently high response speed in the indicating and recording system for the loadforce and extension data is essential. The response speed
required of the system will depend in part on the material tested (high or low elongation) and the rate of straining.
6.3 Thickness Gauge—A dead-weight dial or digital micrometer as described in Test Methods D5947 or D6988 as appropriate
for the material or specimen geometry being tested.
6.4 Width-Measuring Devices—Suitable test scales or other width measuring devices capable of measuring 0.25 mm (0.010 in.)
or less.
6.5 Specimen Cutter—Refer to Practice D6287 for the apparatus and techniques for cutting film and sheeting used in this test
method.
6.5.1 Devices that use razor blades have proven especially suitable for materials having an elongation-at-fracture above 10 to
20 %.
D882 − 18
6.5.2 The use of a punch press or a striking die is not recommended because of their tendency to produce poor and inconsistent
specimen edges.
6.5.3 The use of a cutting template and a single razor blade is not recommended as it will affect the parallelism of the test
specimen.
7. Test Specimens
7.1 The test specimens shall consist of strips of uniform width and thickness at least 50 mm (2 in.) longer than the grip
separation used.
7.2 The nominal width of the specimens shall be not less than 5.0 mm (0.20 in.) or greater than 25.4 mm (1.0 in.).
7.3 A width-thickness ratio of at least eight shall be used. Narrow specimens magnify effects of edge strains or flaws, or both.
7.4 The utmost care shall be exercised in cutting specimens to prevent nicks and tears that cause premature failures (see Note
9). The edges shall be parallel to within 5 % of the width over the length of the specimen between the grips.
NOTE 9—Microscopical examination of specimens can be used to detect flaws due to sample or specimen preparation.
7.5 Test specimens shall be selected so that thickness is uniform to within 10 % of the average thickness over the length of the
specimen between the grips in the case of specimens 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) or less in thickness and to within 5 % in the case of
specimens greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) in thickness but less than 1.00 mm (0.040 in.) in thickness.
NOTE 10—In cases where thickness variations are in excess of those recommended in 6.57.5, results tend not to be characteristic of the material under
test.
7.6 If the material is suspected of being anisotropic, two sets of test specimens shall be prepared having their long axes
respectively parallel with and normal to the suspected direction of anisotropy.
7.7 For tensile modulus of elasticity determinations, a specimen gage length of 250 mm (10 in.) shall be considered as standard.
This length is used in order to minimize the effects of grip slippage on test results. When this length is not feasible, test sections
as short as 100 mm (4 in.) can be used if it has been shown that results are not appreciably affected. However, the 250-mm (10-in.)
gage length shall be used for referee purposes. The speed of testing of shorter specimens must be adjusted in order for the strain
rate to be equivalent to that of the standard specimen.
NOTE 11—Two round robin tests have shown that, for materials of less than 0.25-mm (0.010 in.) in thickness, line grips padded on the round side
with 1.0-mm (0.040-in.) blotting paper give the same results with a 100-mm (4-in.) test section as a 250-mm (10-in.) test section produces with flat-face
grips.
NOTE 12—Excessive jaw slippage becomes increasingly difficult to overcome in cases where high modulus materials are tested in thicknesses greater
than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.).
8. Conditioning
8.1 Conditioning—Condition the test specimens at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) and 50 6 10 % relative humidity for not less than
40 h prior to test in accordance with Procedure A of Practice D618 unless otherwise specified by agreement or the relevant ASTM
material specification. In cases of disagreement, the tolerances shall be 61°C (61.8°F) and 65 % relative humidity.
8.2 Test Conditions—Conduct the tests at 23 6 2°C (73.4 6 3.6°F) and 50 6 10 % relative humidity unless otherwise specified
by agreement or the relevant ASTM material specification. In cases of disagreement, the tolerances shall be 61°C (61.8°F) and
65 % relative humidity.
9. Number of Test Specimens
9.1 In the case of isotropic materials, at least five specimens shall be tested from each sample.
9.2 In the case of anisotropic materials, at least ten specimens, five normal and five parallel with the principal axis of anisotropy,
shall be tested from each sample.
9.3 (Optional) A It is acceptable to test a reduced number of test specimens may be tested and shall be noted in the
report:specimens:
(1) No less than three test specimens shall be tested.
(2) No less than six test specimens in the case of anisotropic materials, three normal and three parallel with the principle axis
of anisotropy, shall be tested.
(3) Allowed for in-line quality control sampling.
(4) Allowed for samples not sufficient in size to provide a minimum of five test specimens (10 test specimens for anisotropic
materials).
(5) Standard deviation is not to be calculated noror reported due to the reduced number of data points.
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D20-1058.
D882 − 18
9.4 Specimens that fail at some obvious flaw or that fail outside the gage length shall be discarded and retests made, unless such
flaws or conditions constitute a variable whose effect is being studied. However, jaw breaks (failures at the grip contact point) are
acceptable if it has been shown that results from such tests are in essential agreement with values obtained from breaks occurring
within the gage length.
NOTE 13—In the cases of some materials, examination of specimens, prior to and following testing, under crossed optical polarizers (polarizing films)
provides a useful means of detecting flaws, which can be, or are, responsible for premature failure.
10. Speed of Testing
10.1 The speed of testing is the rate of separation of the two members (or grips) of the testing machine when running idle (under
no load).force). This rate of separation shall be maintained within 5 % of the no-loadno-force value when running under
full-capacity load.force.
10.2 The speed of testing shall be calculated from the required initial strain rate as specified in Table 1. The rate of grip
separation shall be determined for the purpose of these test methods from the initial strain rate as follows:
A 5 BC (1)
where:
A = rate of grip separation, mm (or in.)/min,
B = initial distance between grips, mm (or in.), and
C = initial strain rate, mm/mm·min (or in./in.·min).
10.3 The initial strain rate shall be as in Table 1 unless otherwise indicated by the specification for the material being tested.
NOTE 14—Results obtained at different initial strain rates are not comparable; consequently, where direct comparisons between materials in various
elongation classes are required, a single initial strain rate must be used. For some materials it is advisable to select the strain rates on the basis of percent
elongation at yield.
10.4 In cases where conflicting material classification, as determined by percent elongation at break values, results in a choice
of strain rates, the lower rate shall be used.
10.5 If modulus values are being determined, separate specimens shall be used whenever strain rates and specimen dimensions
are not the same as those employed in the test for other tensile properties.
11. Procedure
11.1 Select a loadforce range such that specimen failure occurs within its upper two thirds. A few trial runs could be necessary
to select a proper combination of loadforce range and specimen width.
11.2 Measure the cross-sectional area of the specimen at severalthree points along its length. length (center and within
approximately 13 mm of each end of the gage length). Measure the width to an accuracy of 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) or better. Measure
the thickness to an accuracy of 0.0025 mm (0.0001 in.) or better for specimens less than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) in thickness and to
an accuracy of 1 % or better for specimens greater than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) but less than 1.0 mm (0.040 in.) in thickness.
11.3 Set the initial grip separation in accordance with Table 1.
11.4 Set the rate of grip separation to give the desired strain rate, based on the initial distance between the grips, in accordance
with Table 1. Zero the calibrated loadforce weighing system, extension indicator(s) and recording system.
NOTE 15—Extensometers can be used for modulus of elasticity determinations with the expectation of obtaining more accurate values than can be
obtained using grip separation as the effective gage length. Precautions must be taken to ensure that extensometer slippage and undue stressing of the
specimen do not occur. Refer also to 6.77.7.
11.5 In cases where it is desired to measure a test section other than the total length between the grips, mark the ends of the
desired test section with a soft, fine wax crayon or with ink. Do not scratch these marks onto the surface since such scratches can
act as stress raisers and cause premature specimen failure. Extensometers can be used if available; in this case, the test section will
be defined by the contact points of the extensometer.
A
TABLE 1 Crosshead Speeds and Initial Grip Separation
Initial Strain Rate,
Initial Grip Separation Rate of Grip Separation
Percent Elongation
mm/mm·min
at Break
mm in. mm/min in./min
(in./in.·min)
Modulus of Elasticity Determination
0.1 250 10 25 1.0
Determinations other than Elastic Modulus
Less than 20 0.1 125 5 12.5 0.5
20 to 100 0.5 100 4 50 2.0
Greater than 100 10.0 50 2 500 20.0
A
See Fig. A3.1 and Fig. A3.2 in Annex A3 to set the initial grip separation correctly.
D882 − 18
NOTE 16—Measurement of a specific test section is necessary with some materials having high elongation. As the specimen elongates, the
accompanying reduction in area results in a loosening of material at the inside edge of the grips. This reduction and loosening moves back into the grips
as further elongation and reduction in area takes place. In effect, this causes problems similar to grip slippage, that is, exaggerates measured extension.
11.6 Place the test specimen in the grips of the testing machine, taking care to align the long axis of the specimen with an
imaginary line joining the points of attachment of the grips to the machine. Tighten the grips evenly and firmly to the degree
necessary to minimize slipping of
...