ASTM D5083-17

Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Reinforced Thermosetting Plastics Using Straight-Sided Specimens

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is intended for tensile testing of fiber-reinforced thermosetting laminates. For injection molded thermoplastics, both reinforced and unreinforced, Test Method D638 is recommended. For most unidirectional fiber reinforced laminates, Test Methods D3039/D3039M is preferred.  
4.2 This test method is designed to produce tensile property data for quality control and research and development. Report all factors that influence the tensile properties, such as: material, methods of material and specimen preparation, specimen conditioning, test environment, speed of testing, void content, and volume percent reinforcement. See Section 12 for reporting requirements.  
4.3 It is realized that a material cannot be tested without also specifying the method of preparation of that material. Hence, when comparative tests of materials per se are desired, the greatest care must be exercised to ensure that all samples are prepared in exactly the same way, unless the test is to include the effects of sample preparation. Similarly, for referee purposes or comparisons within any given series of specimen, care must be taken to secure the maximum degree of uniformity in details of preparation, treatment, and handling.
Note 6: Preparation techniques for reinforced thermosetting plastics can be found in the part of ISO 1268 appropriate to the manufacturing technique for the laminate.  
4.4 Because of the high degree of sensitivity exhibited by many reinforced plastics to rate of straining and environmental conditions, data obtained by this test method cannot be considered valid for applications involving load-time scales or environments widely different from those of this test method. In cases of such dissimilarity, no reliable estimation of the limit of usefulness can be made for most plastics. This sensitivity to rate of straining and environment necessitates testing over a broad load-time scale (including impact and creep) and range of environmental conditions.
...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the tensile properties of thermosetting reinforced plastics using test specimens of uniform nominal width when tested under defined conditions of pretreatment, temperature, humidity, and testing-machine speed.  
Note 1: Experience with this test method to date has been limited to glass-reinforced thermosets. Applicability to other materials remains to be determined.  
1.2 This test method is used for testing materials of any thickness up to 14 mm (0.55 in.).  
Note 2: This test method is not intended to cover precise physical procedures. It is recognized that the constant-rate-of-crosshead-movement type of test leaves much to be desired from a theoretical standpoint, that wide differences may exist between rate-of-crosshead movement and rate of strain between gauge marks on the specimen, and that the testing speeds specified disguise important effects characteristic of materials in the plastic state. Further, it is realized that variations in the thicknesses of test specimens that are permitted by these procedures, produce variations in the surface-volume ratios of such specimens, and that these variations may influence the test results. Hence, where directly comparable results are desired, all samples should be of equal thickness. Special additional tests should be used where more precise physical data are needed.
Note 3: Use of this test method for testing materials of thicknesses greater than 14 mm (0.55 in.) is not recommended. Reducing the thickness by machining may be acceptable for materials of uniform reinforcement amount and direction, but is generally not recommended.  
1.3 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and appropriate for use in engineering design.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Mar-2017
• ICS: 83.140.20 - Laminated sheets
• Technical Committee: D20 - Plastics
• Drafting Committee: D20.10 - Mechanical Properties

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D5083-10e1 - Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Reinforced Thermosetting Plastics Using Straight-Sided Specimens
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2017
• 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 D883-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM E4-14 - Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2014
• Refers: ASTM E691-13 - Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM D883-12e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2012
• Refers: ASTM D4000-12 - Standard Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM E691-11 - Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2011

Overview

ASTM D5083-17: Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Reinforced Thermosetting Plastics Using Straight-Sided Specimens is a widely recognized test protocol developed by ASTM International. This standard specifies methods for determining the tensile properties-including tensile strength and modulus-of fiber-reinforced thermosetting plastic laminates. It applies to straight-sided test specimens cut or molded from plastics up to 14 mm in thickness. The method is designed to produce reliable tensile property data for engineering design, quality control, and research and development in materials science and plastics engineering.

The procedure is particularly relevant for glass-reinforced thermosetting composites but may be used for other types of reinforced thermosetting plastics as their applicability is determined.

Key Topics

• Tensile Testing Scope: Focuses on fiber-reinforced thermosetting plastic laminates using straight-sided specimens under controlled pretreatment, temperature, humidity, and machine speed.
• Specimen Preparation: Emphasizes the importance of consistent material preparation, specimen dimensions, and conditioning to ensure data validity and comparability.
• Testing Procedure:
  • Utilize a constant-rate-of-crosshead-movement testing machine.
  • Measure width and thickness at multiple points to determine cross-sectional area.
  • Conduct tests at a standard speed, with modulus determinations potentially at a reduced speed.
  • Use extensometers or strain gauges for accurate strain measurement.
• Reporting Requirements: Includes full documentation of material type, preparation method, specimen dimensions, test conditions, tensile strength results, modulus, and statistical data such as averages and standard deviations.
• Precision and Bias: The standard provides guidance on achieving repeatable and reproducible results among different laboratories and highlights the importance of uniform test conditions and reporting.

Applications

ASTM D5083-17 is relevant for a wide range of industrial and engineering applications where understanding the tensile properties of reinforced thermosetting plastics is critical:

• Quality Control: Provides consistent and standardized methods for verifying material performance in manufacturing environments.
• Material Selection and Engineering Design: Supplies reliable data for engineers and designers to select appropriate composite materials for structural components, especially in transportation, construction, and electrical applications.
• Research and Development: Assists researchers in comparing the effects of different reinforcement types, resin matrices, and fabrication methods on tensile properties.
• Product Certification and Specification Compliance: Used by manufacturers and certifying agencies to demonstrate compliance with material standards in regulated industries.

Related Standards

ASTM D5083-17 is part of a suite of standards concerning the mechanical testing of plastics and reinforced composites:

• ASTM D638: Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics (recommended for thermoplastics, both reinforced and unreinforced)
• ASTM D3039/D3039M: Test Method for Tensile Properties of Polymer Matrix Composite Materials (preferred for unidirectional fiber reinforced composites)
• ASTM D883: Terminology Relating to Plastics
• ASTM D4000: Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materials
• ISO 527-4: Plastics-Determination of Tensile Properties-Test Conditions for Isotropic and Orthotropic Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Composites (closely related, with some procedural differences)
• ISO 1268: Fibre-Reinforced Plastics-Methods of Producing Test Plates (provides guidance on specimen preparation)

These related standards offer guidance on testing other polymeric and composite materials, further supporting consistency and reliability in plastics testing.

---

By adhering to ASTM D5083-17, organizations can ensure the accuracy and consistency of tensile property measurements for reinforced thermosetting plastics, underpinning safe design, robust quality assurance, and effective materials research.

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: D5083 − 17
Standard Test Method for
Tensile Properties of Reinforced Thermosetting Plastics
Using Straight-Sided Specimens
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5083; 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.
NOTE4—ThisstandardandISO527-4addressthesamesubjectmatter,
1. Scope*
but differ in technical content.
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the tensile
(a)This test method does not include testing of the Type I dogbone
propertiesofthermosettingreinforcedplasticsusingtestspeci- shapedspecimendescribedinISO527-4.Testingofthistypeofspecimen,
primarilyusedforreinforcedandun-reinforcedthermoplasticmaterials,is
mens of uniform nominal width when tested under defined
described in Test Method D638.
conditions of pretreatment, temperature, humidity, and testing-
(b)The thickness of test specimens in this test method includes the 2
machine speed.
mm to 10 mm thickness range of ISO 527-4, but expands the allowable
test thickness to 14 mm.
NOTE 1—Experience with this test method to date has been limited to
(c)ISO527-4allowsfortheuseofholesinthetabsofthetestspecimen
glass-reinforcedthermosets.Applicabilitytoothermaterialsremainstobe
while this standard does not.
determined.
(d)The definitions for tensile strength and modulus differ between
1.2 This test method is used for testing materials of any
these two standards.
NOTE 5—For tensile properties of resin-matrix composites reinforced
thickness up to 14 mm (0.55 in.).
with oriented continuous or discontinuous high modulus > 20-GPa (> 3.0
NOTE 2—This test method is not intended to cover precise physical
×10 -psi) fibers, tests shall be made in accordance with Test Method
procedures.Itisrecognizedthattheconstant-rate-of-crosshead-movement
D3039/D3039M or ISO 527 Part 5.
type of test leaves much to be desired from a theoretical standpoint, that
wide differences may exist between rate-of-crosshead movement and rate
2. Referenced Documents
ofstrainbetweengaugemarksonthespecimen,andthatthetestingspeeds
2.1 ASTM Standards:
specified disguise important effects characteristic of materials in the
plastic state. Further, it is realized that variations in the thicknesses of test
D618Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
specimens that are permitted by these procedures, produce variations in
D638Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
thesurface-volumeratiosofsuchspecimens,andthatthesevariationsmay
D883Terminology Relating to Plastics
influence the test results. Hence, where directly comparable results are
D3039/D3039MTestMethodforTensilePropertiesofPoly-
desired, all samples should be of equal thickness. Special additional tests
should be used where more precise physical data are needed. mer Matrix Composite Materials
NOTE 3—Use of this test method for testing materials of thicknesses
D4000Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materi-
greaterthan14mm(0.55in.)isnotrecommended.Reducingthethickness
als
by machining may be acceptable for materials of uniform reinforcement
D5947Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
amount and direction, but is generally not recommended.
Plastics Specimens
1.3 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and
E4Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
appropriate for use in engineering design.
E83Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten-
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
someter Systems
standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for
E691Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
information only.
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
2.2 ISO Standard:
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
ISO527Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Part 1: General Principles
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ISO 527 Part 4 Plastics—Determination of Tensile
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
Properties—Test Conditions for Isotropic and Orthotropic
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD20onPlastics contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.10 on Mechanical Properties. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved March 15, 2017. Published March 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
ɛ1 3
approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D5083–10 . DOI: Available fromAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/D5083-17. 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
D5083 − 17
Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Composites 4.5 For some materials, there are specifications that require
ISO527 Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties— the use of this test method, but with some procedural modifi-
Part 5: Test Conditions for Unidirectional Fiber- cations that take precedence when adhering to the specifica-
Reinforced Plastic Composites tion. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to that material speci-
ISO1268Fibre-ReinforcedPlastics—MethodsofProducing fication before using this test method.Table 1 of Classification
Test Plates D4000 lists theASTM materials standards that currently exist.
3. Terminology 5. Apparatus
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to this test 5.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine of the constant-
method appear in Terminology D883 and D638. rate-of-crosshead-movement type and comprising essentially
the following:
4. Significance and Use 5.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary
member carrying one grip.
4.1 This test method is intended for tensile testing of
5.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying a
fiber-reinforced thermosetting laminates. For injection molded
second grip.
thermoplastics, both reinforced and unreinforced, Test Method
5.1.3 Grip:
D638isrecommended.Formostunidirectionalfiberreinforced
5.1.3.1 Grips for holding the test specimen between the
laminates, Test Methods D3039/D3039M is preferred.
fixed member and the movable member. The grips shall be
4.2 This test method is designed to produce tensile property
self-aligning, that is, they shall be attached to the fixed and
data for quality control and research and development. Report
movable member, respectively, in such a manner that they will
all factors that influence the tensile properties, such as:
move freely into alignment as soon as any load is applied, so
material,methodsofmaterialandspecimenpreparation,speci-
that the long axis of the test specimen will coincide with the
men conditioning, test environment, speed of testing, void
direction of the applied load through the center line of the grip
content, and volume percent reinforcement. See Section 12 for
assembly.Align the specimen as perfectly as possible with the
reporting requirements.
direction of pull so that no rotary motion that induces slippage
will occur in the grips; there is a limit to the amount of
4.3 Itisrealizedthatamaterialcannotbetestedwithoutalso
misalignment self-aligning grips will accommodate.
specifying the method of preparation of that material. Hence,
5.1.3.2 Mount the test specimen in such a way that slippage
when comparative tests of materials per se are desired, the
greatest care must be exercised to ensure that all samples are relative to the grips is prevented insofar as possible. Grip
surfaces that are deeply scored or serrated with a pattern
prepared in exactly the same way, unless the test is to include
the effects of sample preparation. Similarly, for referee pur- similar to those of a coarse single-cut file, that is, serrations
about2.4mm(0.09in.)apartandabout1.6mm(0.06in.)deep
posesorcomparisonswithinanygivenseriesofspecimen,care
must be taken to secure the maximum degree of uniformity in or finer, have been found satisfactory for most thermosetting
materials. The serrations need to be kept clean and sharp. If
details of preparation, treatment, and handling.
breaking in the grips occurs, even when deep serrations or
NOTE 6—Preparation techniques for reinforced thermosetting plastics
abraded specimen surfaces are used; other techniques need to
can be found in the part of ISO 1268 appropriate to the manufacturing
be employed. Other techniques that have been found useful,
technique for the laminate.
particularly with smooth-faced grips, are abrading that portion
4.4 Because of the high degree of sensitivity exhibited by
of the surface of the specimen that will be in the grips, and
manyreinforcedplasticstorateofstrainingandenvironmental
interposing thin pieces of abrasive cloth, abrasive paper, or
conditions, data obtained by this test method cannot be
plastic or rubber-coated fabric, commonly called hospital
considered valid for applications involving load-time scales or
sheeting, between the specimen and the grip surface. Number
environments widely different from those of this test method.
80 double-sided abrasive paper has been found effective in
Incasesofsuchdissimilarity,noreliableestimationofthelimit
many cases. An open-mesh fabric, in which the threads are
of usefulness can be made for most plastics.This sensitivity to
coatedwithabrasive,hasalsobeeneffective.Theuseofspecial
rate of straining and environment necessitates testing over a
typesofgripsissometimesnecessarytoeliminateslippageand
broad load-time scale (including impact and creep) and range
breakage in the grips.
of environmental conditions.
5.1.4 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting
NOTE 7—Since the existence of a true elastic limit in plastics (as in to the movable member a controlled velocity with respect to
many other organic materials and in many metals) is debatable, the
thestationarymember,thisvelocitytoberegulatedasspecified
propriety of applying the term “elastic modulus” in its quoted generally
in Section 8.
accepted definition to describe the “stiffness” or stress-strain characteris-
5.1.5 Load Indicator—A suitable load-indicating mecha-
tics of plastic materials is highly dependent on such factors as rate of
application of stress, temperature, previous history of specimen, etc. nism capable of showing the total tensile load carried by the
However, stress-strain curves for plastics, determined as described in this
testspecimenwhenheldbythegrips.Thismechanismshallbe
testmethod,almostalwaysshowalinearregionatlowstresses.Astraight
essentiallyfreeofinertialagatthespecifiedrateoftestingand
line drawn tangent to this portion of the curve permits calculation of an
shall indicate the load with an accuracy of 61% of the
elasticmodulusoftheusuallydefinedtype.Suchaconstantisusefulifits
indicated value, or better. The accuracy of the testing machine
arbitrary nature and dependence on time, temperature, and similar factors
are realized. shall be verified in accordance with Practices E4.
D5083 − 17
NOTE8—Experiencehasshownthatmanytestingmachinesnowinuse
25 62.5 kPa (3.6 60.36 psi); a movable circular contact foot
are incapable of maintaining accuracy for as long as the periods between
6.35 60.025mm(0.250 60.001in.)indiameter;andalower
inspection recommended in Practices E4. Hence, it is recommended that
fixed anvil large enough to extend beyond the contact foot in
each machine be studied individually and verified as often as may be
all directions and parallel to the contact foot within 0.005 mm
found necessary. It may be necessary to perform this function daily.
(0.0002in.)overtheentirefootarea.Flatnessoffootandanvil
5.1.6 The fixed member, movable member, drive
shall conform to Test Methods D5947.
mechanism, and grips shall be constructed of such materials
5.3.2 An optional instrument equipped with a circular con-
and in such proportions that the total elastic longitudinal strain
tact foot 15.88 60.08 mm (0.625 60.003 in.) in diameter is
ofthesystemconstitutedbythesepartsdoesnotexceed1%of
recommended for thickness measuring of process samples or
the total longitudinal strain between the two gauge marks on
larger specimens at least 15.88 mm (0.625 in.) in minimum
thetestspecimenatanytimeduringthetestandatanyloadup
width.
to the rated capacity of the machine.
5.2 Strain—Determine strain by means of an extension
6. Test Specimen
indicator or strain indicator. If Poisson’s ratio is to be
6.1 Geometry:
determined, the specimen must be instrumented to measure
strain in both longitudinal and lateral directions.
6.1.1 The test specimen shall be of uniform nominal width.
5.2.1 Extension Indicator (Extensometer)—A suitable in- These specimens are cut from sheets or plates or prepared by
strument for determining the distance between two designated
compression or injection molding of the material to be tested.
fixedpointswithinthegaugelengthofthetestspecimenasthe Take care in machining the sides of the specimen so that
specimenisstretched.Itisdesirable,butnotessential,thatthis
smooth flat parallel surfaces and sharp clear edges to within
instrument automatically record the distance, or any change in 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) result.
it, or of the elapsed time from the start of the test, or both. If
6.1.2 The standard test specimen shall be in the form of a
only the latter is obtained, load-time data must also be taken.
rectangular prism. The preferred specimen size is as follows:
This instrument shall be essentially free of inertia at the
Overall length: >250 mm
specified speed of testing. Extensometers shall be classified
Width: 25 mm 6 .5 mm
and calibration periodically verified in accordance with Prac-
Thickness: between 2 mm and 14 mm.
tice E83.
6.1.3 Normallytestspecimensdonotneedtobeendtabbed.
5.2.2 Modulus Measurements—For modulus measurement,
If during the testing, the specimen slips or breaks in the grips
an extensometer with a maximum strain error of 0.0002
the use of bonded end tabs has been found to be helpful. The
mm/mm or 0.0002 in./in. that automatically and continuously
recommended tabs have a length of 50 mm. Tabs shall be
records strain shall be used. A Class B-2 extensometer (see
placed at the ends of the specimen and on both sides of the
Practice E83) meets this requirement.
specimendescribedin6.1.2.Thicknessoftheendtabsshallbe
5.2.3 Low-Extension Measurements—For low-extension
1to3mm.Endtabsaremadeofcross-plyorfabricglassfiber/
measurements beyond the modulus range but below 20%
resin laminate with the fibers at 645 degrees to the specimen.
extension, the extensometer system must meet, at least, Prac-
Alternative tabbing arrangements are permissible, but shall be
ticeE83ClassCrequirements.Thisrequiresafixedstrainerror
shown,beforeuse,togiveatleastequalstrengthandnogreater
of0.0025mm(0.001in.)orless,orthecapabilityofreadingto
coefficient of variation than the recommended tabs. Possible
61% of the indicated strain, whichever is greater.
alternatives include tabs made from the material under test,
5.2.4 High-Extension Measurements—For measurements
mechanically fastened tabs, unbonded tabs made of rough
greater than 20%, and beyond the yield point of the material,
material (such as emery paper or sandpaper, and the use of
strain-measuring techniques with error no greater than 610%
roughened grip faces).
of the measured value are acceptable.
NOTE 10—ISO 527 Part 4 designates specimens without end tabs as
5.2.5 If the specimen is instrumented with strain gauges,
Type 2 and with end tabs as Type 3.
proper preparation of the specimen surface and gauge as well
NOTE 11—Machining the thickness of laminates with certain construc-
asmountingofthegaugetothespecimensurface,ismandatory
tions (such as woven roving) can change the material properties. In such
to ensure reliable and accurate strain measurements.
cases, test the specimen in the as-produced thickness up to a maximum of
14 mm (0.55 in.).
NOTE 9—Bonded strain gauges can accurately measure strain directly
below the gauge. Reinforced or discontinuous laminates may produce
6.2 Preparation—Prepare the test specimens by machining
localized strain fiel
...

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.
´1
Designation: D5083 − 10 D5083 − 17
Standard Test Method for
Tensile Properties of Reinforced Thermosetting Plastics
Using Straight-Sided Specimens
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5083; 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.
ε NOTE—Editorially corrected Fig. 1 in February 2015.
1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the tensile properties of thermosetting reinforced plastics using test specimens
of uniform nominal width when tested under defined conditions of pretreatment, temperature, humidity, and testing-machine speed.
NOTE 1—Experience with this test method to date has been limited to glass-reinforced thermosets. Applicability to other materials remains to be
determined.
1.2 This test method can be is used for testing materials of any thickness up to 14 mm (0.55 in.).
NOTE 2—This test method is not intended to cover precise physical procedures. It is recognized that the constant-rate-of-crosshead-movement type of
test leaves much to be desired from a theoretical standpoint, that wide differences may exist between rate-of-crosshead movement and rate of strain
between gagegauge marks on the specimen, and that the testing speeds specified disguise important effects characteristic of materials in the plastic state.
Further, it is realized that variations in the thicknesses of test specimens that are permitted by these procedures, produce variations in the surface-volume
ratios of such specimens, and that these variations may influence the test results. Hence, where directly comparable results are desired, all samples should
be of equal thickness. Special additional tests should be used where more precise physical data are needed.
NOTE 3—Use of this test method for testing materials of thicknesses greater than 14 mm (0.55 in.) is not recommended. Reducing the thickness by
machining may be acceptable for materials of uniform reinforcement amount and direction, but is generally not recommended.
1.3 Test data obtained by this test method is relevant and appropriate for use in engineering design.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information
only.
1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
NOTE 4—This test method is technically equivalent to ISO 527-4 except as noted below:standard and ISO 527-4 address
(a) This test method does not include testing of the Type I dogbone shaped specimen described in ISO 527-4. Testing of this type of specimen, primarily
used for reinforced and un-reinforced thermoplastic materials, is described in Test Method the same subject matter, D638.
(b) The thickness of test specimens in this test method includes the 2 mm to 10 mm thickness range of ISO 527-4, but expands the allowable test thickness
to 14 mm.but differ in technical content.
(a) This test method does not include testing of the Type I dogbone shaped specimen described in ISO 527-4. Testing of this
type of specimen, primarily used for reinforced and un-reinforced thermoplastic materials, is described in Test Method D638.
(b) The thickness of test specimens in this test method includes the 2 mm to 10 mm thickness range of ISO 527-4, but expands
the allowable test thickness to 14 mm.
(c) ISO 527-4 allows for the use of holes in the tabs of the test specimen while this standard does not.
(d) The definitions for tensile strength and modulus differ between these two standards.
NOTE 5—For tensile properties of resin-matrix composites reinforced with oriented continuous or discontinuous high modulus > 20-Gpa20-GPa (> 3.0
× 10 -psi) fibers, tests shall be made in accordance with Test Method D3039/D3039M or ISO 527 Part 5.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.10 on Mechanical Properties.
Current edition approved April 1, 2010March 15, 2017. Published April 2010March 2017. Originally approved in 1990. Last previous edition approved in 20082010 as
ɛ1
D5083 – 08.D5083 – 10 . DOI: 10.1520/D5083-10E01.10.1520/D5083-17.
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
D5083 − 17
FIG. 1 Standard and End Tabbed Specimen Dimensions
D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
D3039/D3039M Test Method for Tensile Properties of Polymer Matrix Composite Materials
D4000 Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materials
D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid Plastics Specimens
E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Extensometer Systems
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
2.2 ISO Standard:
ISO 527 Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—Part 1: General Principles
ISO 527 Part 4 Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—Test Conditions for Isotropic and Orthotropic Fiber-Reinforced
Plastic Composites
ISO 527 Plastics—Determination of Tensile Properties—Part 5: Test Conditions for Unidirectional Fiber-Reinforced Plastic
Composites
ISO 1268 Fibre-Reinforced Plastics—Methods of Producing Test Plates
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
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3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to this test method appear in Terminology D883.
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to this test method appear in Terminology D883 and D638.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method is intended for tensile testing of fiber-reinforced thermosetting laminates. For injection molded
thermoplastics, both reinforced and unreinforced, Test MethodsMethod D638 is recommended. For most unidirectional fiber
reinforced laminates, Test Methods D3039/D3039M is preferred.
4.2 This test method is designed to produce tensile property data for quality control and research and development. Factors
Report all factors that influence the tensile properties, and should therefore be reported, are: such as: material, methods of material
and specimen preparation, specimen conditioning, test environment, speed of testing, void content, and volume percent
reinforcement. See Section 12 for reporting requirements.
4.3 It is realized that a material cannot be tested without also specifying the method of preparation of that material. Hence, when
comparative tests of materials per se are desired, the greatest care must be exercised to ensure that all samples are prepared in
exactly the same way, unless the test is to include the effects of sample preparation. Similarly, for referee purposes or comparisons
within any given series of specimen, care must be taken to secure the maximum degree of uniformity in details of preparation,
treatment, and handling.
NOTE 6—Preparation techniques for reinforced thermosetting plastics can be found in the part of ISO 1268 appropriate to the manufacturing technique
for the laminate.
4.4 Tensile properties may provide useful data for engineering design purposes. However, because Because of the high degree
of sensitivity exhibited by many reinforced plastics to rate of straining and environmental conditions, data obtained by this test
method cannot be considered valid for applications involving load-time scales or environments widely different from those of this
test method. In cases of such dissimilarity, no reliable estimation of the limit of usefulness can be made for most plastics. This
sensitivity to rate of straining and environment necessitates testing over a broad load-time scale (including impact and creep) and
range of environmental conditions.
NOTE 7—Since the existence of a true elastic limit in plastics (as in many other organic materials and in many metals) is debatable, the propriety of
applying the term “elastic modulus” in its quoted generally accepted definition to describe the “stiffness” or stress-strain characteristics of plastic materials
is highly dependent on such factors as rate of application of stress, temperature, previous history of specimen, etc. However, stress-strain curves for
plastics, determined as described in this test method, almost always show a linear region at low stresses. A straight line drawn tangent to this portion of
the curve permits calculation of an elastic modulus of the usually defined type. Such a constant is useful if its arbitrary nature and dependence on time,
temperature, and similar factors are realized.
4.5 For manysome materials, there may be a specification that requiresare specifications that require 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 of Classification D4000 lists the ASTM materials standards that
currently exist.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine of the constant-rate-of-crosshead-movement type and comprising essentially the
following:
5.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary member carrying one grip.
5.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying a second grip.
5.1.3 Grip:
5.1.3.1 Grips for holding the test specimen between the fixed member and the movable member. The grips shall be self-aligning,
that is, they shall be attached to the fixed and movable member, respectively, in such a manner that they will move freely into
alignment as soon as any load is applied, so that the long axis of the test specimen will coincide with the direction of the applied
load through the center line of the grip assembly. Align the specimen as perfectly as possible with the direction of pull so that no
rotary motion that may induce induces slippage will occur in the grips; there is a limit to the amount of misalignment self-aligning
grips will accommodate.
5.1.3.2 Mount the test specimen in such a way that slippage relative to the grips is prevented insofar as possible. Grip surfaces
that are deeply scored or serrated with a pattern similar to those of a coarse single-cut file, that is, serrations about 0.09 in. (2.4
mm)2.4 mm (0.09 in.) apart and about 0.06 in. (1.6 mm)1.6 mm (0.06 in.) deep or finer, have been found satisfactory for most
thermosetting materials. The serrations should need to be kept clean and sharp. Breaking If breaking in the grips may occur at
times, occurs, even when deep serrations or abraded specimen surfaces are used; other techniques must be used in these cases. need
to be employed. Other techniques that have been found useful, particularly with smooth-faced grips, are abrading that portion of
the surface of the specimen that will be in the grips, and interposing thin pieces of abrasive cloth, abrasive paper, or plastic or
rubber-coated fabric, commonly called hospital sheeting, between the specimen and the grip surface. Number 80 double-sided
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abrasive paper has been found effective in many cases. An open-mesh fabric, in which the threads are coated with abrasive, has
also been effective. The use of special types of grips is sometimes necessary to eliminate slippage and breakage in the grips.
5.1.4 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting to the movable member a controlled velocity with respect to the
stationary member, this velocity to be regulated as specified in Section 8.
5.1.5 Load Indicator—A suitable load-indicating mechanism capable of showing the total tensile load carried by the test
specimen when held by the grips. This mechanism shall be essentially free of inertia lag at the specified rate of testing and shall
indicate the load 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.
NOTE 8—Experience has shown that many testing machines now in use are incapable of maintaining accuracy for as long as the periods between
inspection recommended in Practices E4. Hence, it is recommended that each machine be studied individually and verified as often as may be found
necessary. It may be necessary to perform this function daily.
5.1.6 The fixed member, movable member, drive mechanism, and grips shall be constructed of such materials and in such
proportions that the total elastic longitudinal strain of the system constituted by these parts does not exceed 1 % of the total
longitudinal strain between the two gagegauge marks on the test specimen at any time during the test and at any load up to the
rated capacity of the machine.
5.2 Strain—Strain may be determined Determine strain by means of an extension indicator or strain indicator. If Poisson’s ratio
is to be determined, the specimen must be instrumented to measure strain in both longitudinal and lateral directions.
5.2.1 Extension Indicator (Extensometer)—A suitable instrument for determining the distance between two designated fixed
points within the gagegauge length of the test specimen as the specimen is stretched. It is desirable, but not essential, that this
instrument automatically record the distance, or any change in it, or of the elapsed time from the start of the test, or both. If only
the latter is obtained, load-time data must also be taken. This instrument shall be essentially free of inertia at the specified speed
of testing. Extensometers shall be classified and calibration periodically verified in accordance with Practice E83.
5.2.2 Modulus Measurements—For modulus measurement, an extensometer with a maximum strain error of 0.0002 mm/mm or
0.0002 in./in. that automatically and continuously records strain shall be used. A Class B-2 extensometer (see Practice E83) meets
this requirement.
5.2.3 Low-Extension Measurements—For low-extension measurements beyond the modulus range but below 20 % extension,
the extensometer system must meet, at least, Practice E83 Class C requirements. This requires a fixed strain error of .00250.0025
mm (.001(0.001 in.) or less, or the capability of reading to 61 % of the indicated strain, whichever is greater.
5.2.4 High-Extension Measurements—For measurements greater than 20 %, and beyond the yield point of the material,
strain-measuring techniques with error no greater than 610 % of the measured value are acceptable.
5.2.5 When desired, If the specimen may be is instrumented with strain gages. Propergauges, proper preparation of the specimen
surface and gagegauge as well as mounting of the gagegauge to the specimen surface, is mandatory to ensure reliable and accurate
strain measurements.
NOTE 9—Bonded strain gagesgauges can accurately measure strain directly below the gage.gauge. Reinforced or discontinuous laminates may produce
localized strain fields directly under the gagegauge that are not identified by standard averaging extensometers. For strain gagesgauges whose lengths are
too short, localized strain fields under the gagegauge may cause misleading results.
5.3 Micrometers:
5.3.1 Suitable micrometersMicrometers suitable for measuring the width and thickness of the test specimen to an incremental
discrimination of at least 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) shouldshall be used. All width and thickness measurements of rigid and semirigid
plastics may beare usually measured with a hand micrometer with ratchet. A suitable instrument for measuring the thickness of
non-rigid test specimens shall have: a contact measuring pressure of 25 6 2.5 kPa (3.6 6 0.36 psi); a movable circular contact foot
6.35 6 0.025 mm (0.250 6 0.001 in.) in diameter; and a lower fixed anvil large enough to extend beyond the contact foot in all
directions and parallel to the contact foot within 0.005 mm (0.0002 in.) over the entire foot area. Flatness of foot and anvil shall
conform to Test Methods D5947.
5.3.2 An optional instrument equipped with a circular contact foot 15.88 6 0.08 mm (0.625 6 0.003 in.) in diameter is
recommended for thickness measuring of process samples or larger specimens at least 15.88 mm (0.625 in.) in minimum width.
6. Test Specimen
6.1 Geometry:
6.1.1 The test specimen shall be of uniform nominal width. These specimens may be prepared by cutting materials are cut from
sheets or plates or may be prepared by compression or injection molding of the material to be tested. Take care in machining the
sides of the specimen so that smooth flat parallel surfaces and sharp clear edges to within 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) result.
6.1.2 The standard test specimen shall be in the form of a rectangular prism. The preferred specimen size is as follows:
Overall length: >250 mm
Width: 25 mm 6 .5 mm
Thickness: between 2 mm and 14 mm.
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6.1.3 Normally test specimens do not need to be end tabbed. If during the testing, the specimen slips or breaks in the grips it
may be necessary to add bonded end tabs. the use of bonded end tabs has been found to be helpful. The recommended tabs have
a length of 50 mm. Tabs shal
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