Designation: D638 – 10

Standard Test Method for

Tensile Properties of Plastics1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D638; 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 Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the tensile standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
properties of unreinforced and reinforced plastics in the form only.
of standard dumbbell-shaped test specimens when tested under 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
defined conditions of pretreatment, temperature, humidity, and safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
testing machine speed. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
1.2 This test method can be used for testing materials of any priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
thickness up to 14 mm (0.55 in.). However, for testing bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
specimens in the form of thin sheeting, including film less than 2. Referenced Documents
1.0 mm (0.04 in.) in thickness, Test Methods D882 is the
preferred test method. Materials with a thickness greater than 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
14 mm (0.55 in.) must be reduced by machining. D229 Test Methods for Rigid Sheet and Plate Materials
1.3 This test method includes the option of determining Used for Electrical Insulation
Poisson’s ratio at room temperature. D412 Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermo-
plastic Elastomers—Tension
NOTE 1—This test method and ISO 527-1 are technically equivalent. D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
NOTE 2—This test method is not intended to cover precise physical
D651 Method of Test for Tensile Strength of Molded
procedures. It is recognized that the constant rate of crosshead movement
type of test leaves much to be desired from a theoretical standpoint, that Electrical Insulating Material3
wide differences may exist between rate of crosshead movement and rate D882 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic
of strain between gage marks on the specimen, and that the testing speeds Sheeting
specified disguise important effects characteristic of materials in the D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
plastic state. Further, it is realized that variations in the thicknesses of test D1822 Test Method for Tensile-Impact Energy to Break
specimens, which are permitted by these procedures, produce variations in Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials
the surface-volume ratios of such specimens, and that these variations may
D3039/D3039M Test Method for Tensile Properties of
influence the test results. Hence, where directly comparable results are
desired, all samples should be of equal thickness. Special additional tests Polymer Matrix Composite Materials
should be used where more precise physical data are needed. D4000 Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materi-
NOTE 3—This test method may be used for testing phenolic molded als
resin or laminated materials. However, where these materials are used as D4066 Classification System for Nylon Injection and Ex-
electrical insulation, such materials should be tested in accordance with trusion Materials (PA)
Test Methods D229 and Test Method D651. D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
NOTE 4—For tensile properties of resin-matrix composites reinforced
with oriented continuous or discontinuous high modulus >20-GPa
Plastics Specimens
[>3.0 3 106-psi) fibers, tests shall be made in accordance with Test E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
Method D3039/D3039M. E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten-
1.4 Test data obtained by this test method are relevant and someter Systems
appropriate for use in engineering design. E132 Test Method for Poisson’s Ratio at Room Tempera-
ture

2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. 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 May 15, 2010. Published June 2010. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1941. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D638 - 08. DOI: Withdrawn. The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced
10.1520/D0638-10. on www.astm.org.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

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 D638 – 10
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to modulus of the usually defined type. Such a constant is useful if its
Determine the Precision of a Test Method arbitrary nature and dependence on time, temperature, and similar factors
2.2 ISO Standard:4 are realized.
ISO 527-1 Determination of Tensile Properties
5. Apparatus
3. Terminology 5.1 Testing Machine—A testing machine of the constant-
3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to this test rate-of-crosshead-movement type and comprising essentially
method appear in Terminology D883 and Annex A2. the following:
5.1.1 Fixed Member—A fixed or essentially stationary
4. Significance and Use member carrying one grip.
4.1 This test method is designed to produce tensile property 5.1.2 Movable Member—A movable member carrying a
data for the control and specification of plastic materials. These second grip.
data are also useful for qualitative characterization and for 5.1.3 Grips—Grips for holding the test specimen between
research and development. For many materials, there may be a the fixed member and the movable member of the testing
specification that requires the use of this test method, but with machine can be either the fixed or self-aligning type.
some procedural modifications that take precedence when 5.1.3.1 Fixed grips are rigidly attached to the fixed and
adhering to the specification. Therefore, it is advisable to refer movable members of the testing machine. When this type of
to that material specification before using this test method. grip is used extreme care should be taken to ensure that the test
Table 1 in Classification D4000 lists the ASTM materials specimen is inserted and clamped so that the long axis of the
standards that currently exist. test specimen coincides with the direction of pull through the
4.2 Tensile properties may vary with specimen preparation center line of the grip assembly.
and with speed and environment of testing. Consequently,
5.1.3.2 Self-aligning grips are attached to the fixed and
where precise comparative results are desired, these factors
movable members of the testing machine in such a manner that
must be carefully controlled.
they will move freely into alignment as soon as any load is
4.2.1 It is realized that a material cannot be tested without
applied so that the long axis of the test specimen will coincide
also testing the method of preparation of that material. Hence,
with the direction of the applied pull through the center line of
when comparative tests of materials per se are desired, the
the grip assembly. The specimens should be aligned as per-
greatest care must be exercised to ensure that all samples are
fectly as possible with the direction of pull so that no rotary
prepared in exactly the same way, unless the test is to include
motion that may induce slippage will occur in the grips; there
the effects of sample preparation. Similarly, for referee pur-
is a limit to the amount of misalignment self-aligning grips will
poses or comparisons within any given series of specimens,
accommodate.
care must be taken to secure the maximum degree of unifor-
mity in details of preparation, treatment, and handling. 5.1.3.3 The test specimen shall be held in such a way that
4.3 Tensile properties may provide useful data for plastics slippage relative to the grips is prevented insofar as possible.
engineering design purposes. However, because of the high Grip surfaces that are deeply scored or serrated with a pattern
degree of sensitivity exhibited by many plastics to rate of similar to those of a coarse single-cut file, serrations about 2.4
straining and environmental conditions, data obtained by this mm (0.09 in.) apart and about 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) deep, have
test method cannot be considered valid for applications involv- been found satisfactory for most thermoplastics. Finer serra-
ing load-time scales or environments widely different from tions have been found to be more satisfactory for harder
those of this test method. In cases of such dissimilarity, no plastics, such as the thermosetting materials. The serrations
reliable estimation of the limit of usefulness can be made for should be kept clean and sharp. Breaking in the grips may
most plastics. This sensitivity to rate of straining and environ- occur at times, even when deep serrations or abraded specimen
ment necessitates testing over a broad load-time scale (includ- surfaces are used; other techniques must be used in these cases.
ing impact and creep) and range of environmental conditions if Other techniques that have been found useful, particularly with
tensile properties are to suffice for engineering design pur- smooth-faced grips, are abrading that portion of the surface of
poses. the specimen that will be in the grips, and interposing thin
pieces of abrasive cloth, abrasive paper, or plastic, or rubber-
NOTE 5—Since the existence of a true elastic limit in plastics (as in coated fabric, commonly called hospital sheeting, between the
many other organic materials and in many metals) is debatable, the specimen and the grip surface. No. 80 double-sided abrasive
propriety of applying the term “elastic modulus” in its quoted, generally
accepted definition to describe the “stiffness” or “rigidity” of a plastic has
paper has been found effective in many cases. An open-mesh
been seriously questioned. The exact stress-strain characteristics of plastic fabric, in which the threads are coated with abrasive, has also
materials are highly dependent on such factors as rate of application of been effective. Reducing the cross-sectional area of the speci-
stress, temperature, previous history of specimen, etc. However, stress- men may also be effective. The use of special types of grips is
strain curves for plastics, determined as described in this test method, sometimes necessary to eliminate slippage and breakage in the
almost always show a linear region at low stresses, and a straight line grips.
drawn tangent to this portion of the curve permits calculation of an elastic
5.1.4 Drive Mechanism—A drive mechanism for imparting
to the movable member a uniform, controlled velocity with
4
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., respect to the stationary member, with this velocity to be
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. regulated as specified in Section 8.

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 D638 – 10
5.1.5 Load Indicator—A suitable load-indicating mecha- 5.3 Micrometers—Apparatus for measuring the width and
nism capable of showing the total tensile load carried by the thickness of the test specimen shall comply with the require-
test specimen when held by the grips. This mechanism shall be ments of Test Method D5947.
essentially free of inertia lag at the specified rate of testing and
shall indicate the load with an accuracy of 61 % of the 6. Test Specimens
indicated value, or better. The accuracy of the testing machine 6.1 Sheet, Plate, and Molded Plastics:
shall be verified in accordance with Practices E4. 6.1.1 Rigid and Semirigid Plastics—The test specimen shall
conform to the dimensions shown in Fig. 1. The Type I
NOTE 6—Experience has shown that many testing machines now in use
specimen is the preferred specimen and shall be used where
are incapable of maintaining accuracy for as long as the periods between
inspection recommended in Practices E4. Hence, it is recommended that sufficient material having a thickness of 7 mm (0.28 in.) or less
each machine be studied individually and verified as often as may be is available. The Type II specimen may be used when a
found necessary. It frequently will be necessary to perform this function material does not break in the narrow section with the preferred
daily. Type I specimen. The Type V specimen shall be used where
5.1.6 The fixed member, movable member, drive mecha- only limited material having a thickness of 4 mm (0.16 in.) or
nism, and grips shall be constructed of such materials and in less is available for evaluation, or where a large number of
such proportions that the total elastic longitudinal strain of the specimens are to be exposed in a limited space (thermal and
system constituted by these parts does not exceed 1 % of the environmental stability tests, etc.). The Type IV specimen
total longitudinal strain between the two gage marks on the test should be used when direct comparisons are required between
specimen at any time during the test and at any load up to the materials in different rigidity cases (that is, nonrigid and
rated capacity of the machine. semirigid). The Type III specimen must be used for all
materials with a thickness of greater than 7 mm (0.28 in.) but
5.1.7 Crosshead Extension Indicator—A suitable extension
not more than 14 mm (0.55 in.).
indicating mechanism capable of showing the amount of 6.1.2 Nonrigid Plastics—The test specimen shall conform
change in the separation of the grips, that is, crosshead to the dimensions shown in Fig. 1. The Type IV specimen shall
movement. This mechanism shall be essentially free of inertial be used for testing nonrigid plastics with a thickness of 4 mm
lag at the specified rate of testing and shall indicate the (0.16 in.) or less. The Type III specimen must be used for all
crosshead movement with an accuracy of 610 % of the materials with a thickness greater than 7 mm (0.28 in.) but not
indicated value. more than 14 mm (0.55 in.).
5.2 Extension Indicator (extensometer)—A suitable instru- 6.1.3 Reinforced Composites—The test specimen for rein-
ment shall be used for determining the distance between two forced composites, including highly orthotropic laminates,
designated points within the gage length of the test specimen as shall conform to the dimensions of the Type I specimen shown
the specimen is stretched. For referee purposes, the extensom- in Fig. 1.
eter must be set at the full gage length of the specimen, as 6.1.4 Preparation—Test specimens shall be prepared by
shown in Fig. 1. It is desirable, but not essential, that this machining operations, or die cutting, from materials in sheet,
instrument automatically record this distance, or any change in plate, slab, or similar form. Materials thicker than 14 mm (0.55
it, as a function of the load on the test specimen or of the in.) must be machined to 14 mm (0.55 in.) for use as Type III
elapsed time from the start of the test, or both. If only the latter specimens. Specimens can also be prepared by molding the
is obtained, load-time data must also be taken. This instrument material to be tested.
shall be essentially free of inertia at the specified speed of
testing. Extensometers shall be classified and their calibration NOTE 7—Test results have shown that for some materials such as glass
cloth, SMC, and BMC laminates, other specimen types should be
periodically verified in accordance with Practice E83.
considered to ensure breakage within the gage length of the specimen, as
5.2.1 Modulus-of-Elasticity Measurements—For modulus- mandated by 7.3.
of-elasticity measurements, an extensometer with a maximum NOTE 8—When preparing specimens from certain composite laminates
strain error of 0.0002 mm/mm (in./in.) that automatically and such as woven roving, or glass cloth, care must be exercised in cutting the
continuously records shall be used. An extensometer classified specimens parallel to the reinforcement. The reinforcement will be
by Practice E83 as fulfilling the requirements of a B-2 significantly weakened by cutting on a bias, resulting in lower laminate
properties, unless testing of specimens in a direction other than parallel
classification within the range of use for modulus measure- with the reinforcement constitutes a variable being studied.
ments meets this requirement. NOTE 9—Specimens prepared by injection molding may have different
5.2.2 Low-Extension Measurements—For elongation-at- tensile properties than specimens prepared by machining or die-cutting
yield and low-extension measurements (nominally 20 % or because of the orientation induced. This effect may be more pronounced
less), the same above extensometer, attenuated to 20 % exten- in specimens with narrow sections.
sion, may be used. In any case, the extensometer system must 6.2 Rigid Tubes—The test specimen for rigid tubes shall be
meet at least Class C (Practice E83) requirements, which as shown in Fig. 2. The length, L, shall be as shown in the table
include a fixed strain error of 0.001 strain or 61.0 % of the in Fig. 2. A groove shall be machined around the outside of the
indicated strain, whichever is greater. specimen at the center of its length so that the wall section after
5.2.3 High-Extension Measurements—For making mea- machining shall be 60 % of the original nominal wall thick-
surements at elongations greater than 20 %, measuring tech- ness. This groove shall consist of a straight section 57.2 mm
niques with error no greater than 610 % of the measured value (2.25 in.) in length with a radius of 76 mm (3 in.) at each end
are acceptable. joining it to the outside diameter. Steel or brass plugs having

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 D638 – 10

Specimen Dimensions for Thickness, T, mm (in.)A

7 (0.28) or under Over 7 to 14 (0.28 to 0.55), incl 4 (0.16) or under
Dimensions (see drawings) Tolerances
Type I Type II Type III Type IVB Type VC,D
W—Width of narrow sectionE,F 13 (0.50) 6 (0.25) 19 (0.75) 6 (0.25) 3.18 (0.125) 60.5 (60.02)B,C
L—Length of narrow section 57 (2.25) 57 (2.25) 57 (2.25) 33 (1.30) 9.53 (0.375) 60.5 (60.02)C
WO—Width overall, minG 19 (0.75) 19 (0.75) 29 (1.13) 19 (0.75) ... + 6.4 ( + 0.25)
WO—Width overall, minG ... ... ... ... 9.53 (0.375) + 3.18 ( + 0.125)
LO—Length overall, minH 165 (6.5) 183 (7.2) 246 (9.7) 115 (4.5) 63.5 (2.5) no max (no max)
G—Gage lengthI 50 (2.00) 50 (2.00) 50 (2.00) ... 7.62 (0.300) 60.25 (60.010)C
G—Gage lengthI ... ... ... 25 (1.00) ... 60.13 (60.005)
D—Distance between grips 115 (4.5) 135 (5.3) 115 (4.5) 65 (2.5)J 25.4 (1.0) 65 (60.2)
R—Radius of fillet 76 (3.00) 76 (3.00) 76 (3.00) 14 (0.56) 12.7 (0.5) 61 (60.04)C
RO—Outer radius (Type IV) ... ... ... 25 (1.00) ... 61 (60.04)

A
Thickness, T, shall be 3.26 0.4 mm (0.13 6 0.02 in.) for all types of molded specimens, and for other Types I and II specimens where possible. If specimens are
machined from sheets or plates, thickness, T, may be the thickness of the sheet or plate provided this does not exceed the range stated for the intended specimen type.
For sheets of nominal thickness greater than 14 mm (0.55 in.) the specimens shall be machined to 14 6 0.4 mm (0.55 6 0.02 in.) in thickness, for use with the Type III
specimen. For sheets of nominal thickness between 14 and 51 mm (0.55 and 2 in.) approximately equal amounts shall be machined from each surface. For thicker sheets
both surfaces of the specimen shall be machined, and the location of the specimen with reference to the original thickness of the sheet shall be noted. Tolerances on
thickness less than 14 mm (0.55 in.) shall be those standard for the grade of material tested.
B
For the Type IV specimen, the internal width of the narrow section of the die shall be 6.00 6 0.05 mm (0.250 6 0.002 in.). The dimensions are essentially those of
Die C in Test Methods D412.
C
The Type V specimen shall be machined or die cut to the dimensions shown, or molded in a mold whose cavity has these dimensions. The dimensions shall be:
W = 3.18 6 0.03 mm (0.125 6 0.001 in.),
L = 9.53 6 0.08 mm (0.375 6 0.003 in.),
G = 7.62 6 0.02 mm (0.300 6 0.001 in.), and
R = 12.7 6 0.08 mm (0.500 6 0.003 in.).
The other tolerances are those in the table.
D
Supporting data on the introduction of the L specimen of Test Method D1822 as the Type V specimen are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR:D20-1038.
E
The width at the center Wc shall be +0.00 mm, −0.10 mm ( +0.000 in., −0.004 in.) compared with width W at other parts of the reduced section. Any reduction in W
at the center shall be gradual, equally on each side so that no abrupt changes in dimension result.
F
For molded specimens, a draft of not over 0.13 mm (0.005 in.) may be allowed for either Type I or II specimens 3.2 mm (0.13 in.) in thickness, and this should be taken
into account when calculating width of the specimen. Thus a typical section of a molded Type I specimen, having the maximum allowable draft, could be as follows:
G
Overall widths greater than the minimum indicated may be desirable for some materials in order to avoid breaking in the grips.
H
Overall lengths greater than the minimum indicated may be desirable either to avoid breaking in the grips or to satisfy special test requirements.
I
Test marks or initial extensometer span.
J
When self-tightening grips are used, for highly extensible polymers, the distance between grips will depend upon the types of grips used and may not be critical if
maintained uniform once chosen.

FIG. 1 Tension Test Specimens for Sheet, Plate, and Molded Plastics

diameters such that they will fit snugly inside the tube and crushing. They can be located conveniently in the tube by
having a length equal to the full jaw length plus 25 mm (1 in.) separating and supporting them on a threaded metal rod.
shall be placed in the ends of the specimens to prevent Details of plugs and test assembly are shown in Fig. 2.

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 D638 – 10

DIMENSIONS OF ROD SPECIMENS

Standard Length, L, of
Total Calculated
Nominal Diam- Length of Radial Specimen to Be Used
Minimum
DIMENSIONS OF TUBE SPECIMENS eter Sections, 2R.S. for 89-mm (31⁄2-in.)
Length of Specimen
JawsA
Standard Length, L,
Length of Radial Total Calculated mm (in.)
Nominal Wall of Specimen to Be
Sections, Minimum
Thickness Used for 89-mm 3.2 (1⁄8) 19.6 (0.773) 356 (14.02) 381 (15)
2R.S. Length of Specimen
(3.5-in.) JawsA 4.7 (1⁄16) 24.0 (0.946) 361 (14.20) 381 (15)
mm (in.) 6.4 (1⁄4) 27.7 (1.091) 364 (14.34) 381 (15)
9.5 (3⁄8) 33.9 (1.333) 370 (14.58) 381 (15)
0.79 (1⁄32) 13.9 (0.547) 350 (13.80) 381 (15) 12.7 (1⁄2) 39.0 (1.536) 376 (14.79) 400 (15.75)
1.2 (3⁄64) 17.0 (0.670) 354 (13.92) 381 (15) 15.9 (5⁄8) 43.5 (1.714) 380 (14.96) 400 (15.75)
1.6 (1⁄16) 19.6 (0.773) 356 (14.02) 381 (15) 19.0 (3⁄4) 47.6 (1.873) 384 (15.12) 400 (15.75)
2.4 (3⁄32) 24.0 (0.946) 361 (14.20) 381 (15) 22.2 (7⁄8) 51.5 (2.019) 388 (15.27) 400 (15.75)
3.2 (1⁄8) 27.7 (1.091) 364 (14.34) 381 (15) 25.4 (1) 54.7 (2.154) 391 (15.40) 419 (16.5)
4.8 (3⁄16) 33.9 (1.333) 370 (14.58) 381 (15) 31.8 (11⁄4) 60.9 (2.398) 398 (15.65) 419 (16.5)
6.4 (1⁄4) 39.0 (1.536) 376 (14.79) 400 (15.75) 38.1 (11⁄2) 66.4 (2.615) 403 (15.87) 419 (16.5)
7.9 (5⁄16) 43.5 (1.714) 380 (14.96) 400 (15.75) 42.5 (13⁄4) 71.4 (2.812) 408 (16.06) 419 (16.5)
9.5 (3⁄8) 47.6 (1.873) 384 (15.12) 400 (15.75) 50.8 (2) 76.0 (2.993) 412 (16.24) 432 (17)
11.1 (7⁄16) 51.3 (2.019) 388 (15.27) 400 (15.75)
12.7 (1⁄2) 54.7 (2.154) 391 (15.40) 419 (16.5) A
For other jaws greater than 89 mm (3.5 in.), the standard length shall be
increased by twice the length of the jaws minus 178 mm (7 in.). The standard
A
For other jaws greater than 89 mm (3.5 in.), the standard length shall be length permits a slippage of approximately 6.4 to 12.7 mm (0.25 to 0.50 in.) in each
increased by twice the length of the jaws minus 178 mm (7 in.). The standard jaw while maintaining the maximum length of the jaw grip.
length permits a slippage of approximately 6.4 to 12.7 mm (0.25 to 0.50 in.) in each FIG. 3 Diagram Showing Location of Rod Tension Test Specimen
jaw while maintaining the maximum length of the jaw grip.
in Testing Machine
FIG. 2 Diagram Showing Location of Tube Tension Test
Specimens in Testing Machine

groove shall consist of a straight section 57.2 mm (2.25 in.) in

6.3 Rigid Rods—The test specimen for rigid rods shall be as length with a radius of 76 mm (3 in.) at each end joining it to
shown in Fig. 3. The length, L, shall be as shown in the table the outside diameter.
in Fig. 3. A groove shall be machined around the specimen at 6.4 All surfaces of the specimen shall be free of visible
the center of its length so that the diameter of the machined flaws, scratches, or imperfections. Marks left by coarse ma-
portion shall be 60 % of the original nominal diameter. This chining operations shall be carefully removed with a fine file or

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 D638 – 10
abrasive, and the filed surfaces shall then be smoothed with TABLE 1 Designations for Speed of TestingA
abrasive paper (No. 00 or finer). The finishing sanding strokes Nominal
shall be made in a direction parallel to the long axis of the test StrainC Rate at
B Speed of Testing,
Classification Specimen Type Start of Test,
specimen. All flash shall be removed from a molded specimen, mm/min (in./min)
mm/mm· min
taking great care not to disturb the molded surfaces. In (in./in.·min)
machining a specimen, undercuts that would exceed the Rigid and Semirigid I, II, III rods and 5 (0.2) 6 25 % 0.1
dimensional tolerances shown in Fig. 1 shall be scrupulously tubes
50 (2) 6 10 % 1
avoided. Care shall also be taken to avoid other common 500 (20) 6 10 % 10
machining errors. IV 5 (0.2) 6 25 % 0.15
6.5 If it is necessary to place gage marks on the specimen, 50 (2) 6 10 % 1.5
500 (20) 6 10 % 15
this shall be done with a wax crayon or India ink that will not V 1 (0.05) 6 25 % 0.1
affect the material being tested. Gage marks shall not be 10 (0.5) 6 25 % 1
scratched, punched, or impressed on the specimen. 100 (5)6 25 % 10
Nonrigid III 50 (2) 6 10 % 1
6.6 When testing materials that are suspected of anisotropy, 500 (20) 6 10 % 10
duplicate sets of test specimens shall be prepared, having their IV 50 (2) 6 10 % 1.5
long axes respectively parallel with, and normal to, the 500 (20) 6 10 % 15
A
suspected direction of anisotropy. Select the lowest speed that produces rupture in 1⁄2 to 5 min for the specimen
geometry being used (see 8.2).
B
See Terminology D883 for definitions.
7. Number of Test Specimens C
The initial rate of straining cannot be calculated exactly for dumbbell-shaped
7.1 Test at least five specimens for each sample in the case specimens because of extension, both in the reduced section outside the gage
length and in the fillets. This initial strain rate can be measured from the initial slope
of isotropic materials. of the tensile strain-versus-time diagram.
7.2 Test ten specimens, five normal to, and five parallel
with, the principle axis of anisotropy, for each sample in the
case of anisotropic materials. accordance with Section 7 of Practice D618, unless otherwise
7.3 Discard specimens that break at some flaw, or that break specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica-
outside of the narrow cross-sectional test section (Fig. 1, tion.
dimension “L”), and make retests, unless such flaws constitute
a variable to be studied. 10. Procedure
NOTE 10—Before testing, all transparent specimens should be inspected 10.1 Measure the width and thickness of each specimen to
in a polariscope. Those which show atypical or concentrated strain the nearest 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) using the applicable test
patterns should be rejected, unless the effects of these residual strains methods in D5947.
constitute a variable to be studied.

8. Speed of Testing TABLE 2 Modulus, 106 psi, for Eight Laboratories, Five Materials
8.1 Speed of testing shall be the relative rate of motion of Mean Sr SR Ir IR
the grips or test fixtures during the test. The rate of motion of Polypropylene 0.210 0.0089 0.071 0.025 0.201
the driven grip or fixture when the testing machine is running Cellulose acetate butyrate 0.246 0.0179 0.035 0.051 0.144
idle may be used, if it can be shown that the resulting speed of Acrylic 0.481 0.0179 0.063 0.051 0.144
Glass-reinforced nylon 1.17 0.0537 0.217 0.152 0.614
testing is within the limits of variation allowed. Glass-reinforced polyester 1.39 0.0894 0.266 0.253 0.753
8.2 Choose the speed of testing from Table 1. Determine
this chosen speed of testing by the specification for the material
being tested, or by agreement between those concerned. When
the speed is not specified, use the lowest speed shown in Table 10.1.1 Measure the width and thickness of flat specimens at
1 for the specimen geometry being used, which gives rupture the center of each specimen and within 5 mm of each end of the
within 1⁄2 to 5-min testing time. gage length.
8.3 Modulus determinations may be made at the speed 10.1.2 Injection molded specimen dimensions may be de-
selected for the other tensile properties when the recorder termined by actual measurement of only one specimen from
response and resolution are adequate. each sample when it has previously been demonstrated that the
specimen-to-specimen variation in width and thickness is less
9. Conditioning than 1 %.
9.1 Conditioning—Condition the test specimens in accor- 10.1.3 Take the width of specimens produced by a Type IV
dance with Procedure A of Practice D618, unless otherwise die as the distance between the cutting edges of the die in the
specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica- narrow section.
tion. Conditioning time is specified as a minimum. Tempera- 10.1.4 Measure the diameter of rod specimens, and the
ture and humidity tolerances shall be in accordance with inside and outside diameters of tube specimens, to the nearest
Section 7 of Practice D618 unless specified differently by 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) at a minimum of two points 90° apart;
contract or material specification. make these measurements along the groove for specimens so
9.2 Test Conditions—Conduct the tests at the same tempera- constructed. Use plugs in testing tube specimens, as shown in
ture and humidity used for conditioning with tolerances in Fig. 2.

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 D638 – 10
10.2 Place the specimen in the grips of the testing machine, length, expressed as a percent. Percent elongation is calculated
taking care to align the long axis of the specimen and the grips using the apparatus described in 5.2.
with an imaginary line joining the points of attachment of the 11.3.1.1 Percent Elongation at Yield—Calculate the percent
grips to the machine. The distance between the ends of the elongation at yield by reading the extension (change in gage
gripping surfaces, when using flat specimens, shall be as length) at the yield point. Divide that extension by the original
indicated in Fig. 1. On tube and rod specimens, the location for gage length and multiply by 100.
the grips shall be as shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Tighten the 11.3.1.2 Percent Elongation at Break—Calculate the per-
grips evenly and firmly to the degree necessary to prevent cent elongation at break by reading the extension (change in
slippage of the specimen during the test, but not to the point gage length) at the point of specimen rupture. Divide that
where the specimen would be crushed. extension by the original gage length and multiply by 100.
10.3 Attach the extension indicator. When modulus is being 11.3.2 Nominal Strain—Nominal strain is the change in grip
determined, a Class B-2 or better extensometer is required (see separation relative to the original grip separation expressed as
5.2.1). a percent. Nominal strain is calculated using the apparatus
NOTE 11—Modulus of materials is determined from the slope of the
described in 5.1.7.
linear portion of the stress-strain curve. For most plastics, this linear 11.3.2.1 Nominal strain at break—Calculate the nominal
portion is very small, occurs very rapidly, and must be recorded automati- strain at break by reading the extension (change in grip
cally. The change in jaw separation is never to be used for calculating separation) at the point of rupture. Divide that extension by the
modulus or elongation. original grip separation and multiply by 100.
10.4 Set the speed of testing at the proper rate as required in 11.4 Modulus of Elasticity—Calculate the modulus of elas-
Section 8, and start the machine. ticity by extending the initial linear portion of the load-
10.5 Record the load-extension curve of the specimen. extension curve and dividing the difference in stress corre-
10.6 Record the load and extension at the yield point (if one sponding to any segment of section on this straight line by the
exists) and the load and extension at the moment of rupture. corresponding difference in strain. All elastic modulus values
shall be computed using the average original cross-sectional
NOTE 12—If it is desired to measure both modulus and failure proper- area in the gage length segment of the specimen in the
ties (yield or break, or both), it may be necessary, in the case of highly
calculations. The result shall be expressed in pascals (pounds-
extensible materials, to run two independent tests. The high magnification
extensometer normally used to determine properties up to the yield point force per square inch) and reported to three significant figures.
may not be suitable for tests involving high extensibility. If allowed to 11.5 Secant Modulus—At a designated strain, this shall be
remain attached to the specimen, the extensometer could be permanently calculated by dividing the corresponding stress (nominal) by
damaged. A broad-range incremental extensometer or hand-rule technique the designated strain. Elastic modulus values are preferable and
may be needed when such materials are taken to rupture. shall be calculated whenever possible. However, for materials
where no proportionality is evident, the secant value shall be
11. Calculation calculated. Draw the tangent as directed in A1.3 and Fig. A1.2,
11.1 Toe compensation shall be made in accordance with and mark off the designated strain from the yield point where
Annex A1, unless it can be shown that the toe region of the the tangent line goes through zero stress. The stress to be used
curve is not due to the take-up of slack, seating of the in the calculation is then determined by dividing the load-
specimen, or other artifact, but rather is an authentic material extension curve by the original average cross-sectional area of
response. the specimen.
11.2 Tensile Strength—Calculate the tensile strength by 11.6 For each series of tests, calculate the arithmetic mean
dividing the maximum load in newtons (pounds-force) by the of all values obtained and report it as the “average value” for
average original cross-sectional area in the gage length seg- the particular property in question.
ment of the specimen in square metres (square inches). Express 11.7 Calculate the standard deviation (estimated) as follows
the result in pascals (pounds-force per square inch) and report and report it to two significant figures:
it to three significant figures as tensile strength at yield or
tensile strength at break, whichever term is applicable. When a s 5 =~ (X 2 2 nX̄ 2! / ~n 2 1! (1)
nominal yield or break load less than the maximum is present
and applicable, it may be desirable also to calculate, in a where:
similar manner, the corresponding tensile stress at yield or s = estimated standard deviation,
tensile stress at break and report it to three significant figures X = value of single observation,
(see Note A2.8). n = number of observations, and
11.3 Elongation values are valid and are reported in cases X̄ = arithmetic mean of the set of observations.
where uniformity of deformation within the specimen gage 11.8 See Annex A1 for information on toe compensation.
length is present. Elongation values are quantitatively relevant
and appropriate for engineering design. When non-uniform 12. Report
deformation (such as necking) occurs within the specimen gage 12.1 Report the following information:
length nominal strain values are reported. Nominal strain 12.1.1 Complete identification of the material tested, includ-
values are of qualitative utility only. ing type, source, manufacturer’s code numbers, form, principal
11.3.1 Percent Elongation—Percent elongation is the dimensions, previous history, etc.,
change in gage length relative to the original specimen gage 12.1.2 Method of preparing test specimens,

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 D638 – 10

FIG. 4 Plot of Strains Versus Load for Determination of Poisson’s Ratio

TABLE 3 Tensile Strength at Break, 103 psi, for Eight TABLE 5 Tensile Yield Strength, for Ten Laboratories, Eight
Laboratories, Five MaterialsA Materials
Mean Sr SR Ir IR Test Values Expressed in psi Units
Material Speed,
Polypropylene 2.97 1.54 1.65 4.37 4.66 Average Sr SR r R
in./min
Cellulose acetate butyrate 4.82 0.058 0.180 0.164 0.509
Acrylic 9.09 0.452 0.751 1.27 2.13 LDPE 20 1544 52.4 64.0 146.6 179.3
Glass-reinforced polyester 20.8 0.233 0.437 0.659 1.24 LDPE 20 1894 53.1 61.2 148.7 171.3
Glass-reinforced nylon 23.6 0.277 0.698 0.784 1.98 LLDPE 20 1879 74.2 99.9 207.8 279.7
A LLDPE 20 1791 49.2 75.8 137.9 212.3
Tensile strength and elongation at break values obtained for unreinforced
LLDPE 20 2900 55.5 87.9 155.4 246.1
propylene plastics generally are highly variable due to inconsistencies in necking
LLDPE 20 1730 63.9 96.0 178.9 268.7
or “drawing” of the center section of the test bar. Since tensile strength and
HDPE 2 4101 196.1 371.9 549.1 1041.3
elongation at yield are more reproducible and relate in most cases to the practical
HDPE 2 3523 175.9 478.0 492.4 1338.5
usefulness of a molded part, they are generally recommended for specification
purposes.

TABLE 4 Elongation at Break, %, for Eight Laboratories, Five

MaterialsA
12.1.11 Percent elongation at yield, or break, or nominal
strain at break, or all three, as applicable, average value, and
Mean Sr SR Ir IR
standard deviation,
Glass-reinforced polyester 3.68 0.20 2.33 0.570 6.59
Glass-reinforced nylon 3.87 0.10 2.13 0.283 6.03
12.1.12 Modulus of elasticity or secant modulus, average
Acrylic 13.2 2.05 3.65 5.80 10.3 value, and standard deviation,
Cellulose acetate butyrate 14.1 1.87 6.62 5.29 18.7 12.1.13 If measured, Poisson’s ratio, average value, stan-
Polypropylene 293.0 50.9 119.0 144.0 337.0
dard deviation, and statement of whether there was proportion-
A
Tensile strength and elongation at break values obtained for unreinforced ality within the strain range,
propylene plastics generally are highly variable due to inconsistencies in necking
or “drawing” of the center section of the test bar. Since tensile strength and 12.1.14 Date of test, and
elongation at yield are more reproducible and relate in most cases to the practical 12.1.15 Revision date of Test Method D638.
usefulness of a molded part, they are generally recommended for specification
purposes.
13. Precision and Bias 5
13.1 Precision—Tables 2-4 are based on a round-robin test
conducted in 1984, involving five materials tested by eight
12.1.3 Type of test specimen and dimensions,
laboratories using the Type I specimen, all of nominal 0.125-in.
12.1.4 Conditioning procedure used,
12.1.5 Atmospheric conditions in test room,
12.1.6 Number of specimens tested, 5
Supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR:D20-
12.1.7 Speed of testing, 1125 for the 1984 round robin and RR:D20-1170 for the 1988 round robin.
12.1.8 Classification of extensometers used. A description
of measuring technique and calculations employed instead of a TABLE 6 Tensile Stress at Yield, 103 psi, for Eight Laboratories,
minimum Class-C extensometer system, Three Materials
12.1.9 Tensile strength at yield or break, average value, and Mean Sr SR Ir IR
standard deviation, Polypropylene 3.63 0.022 0.161 0.062 0.456
Cellulose acetate butyrate 5.01 0.058 0.227 0.164 0.642
12.1.10 Tensile stress at yield or break, if applicable, Acrylic 10.4 0.067 0.317 0.190 0.897
average value, and standard deviation,

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 D638 – 10
TABLE 7 Elongation at Yield, %, for Eight Laboratories, Three each material. Data from some laboratories could not be used
Materials for various reasons, and this is noted in each table.
Mean Sr SR Ir IR 13.1.2 Table 11 is based on a repeatability study involving a
Cellulose acetate butyrate 3.65 0.27 0.62 0.76 1.75
Acrylic 4.89 0.21 0.55 0.59 1.56
Polypropylene 8.79 0.45 5.86 1.27 16.5 TABLE 11 Poisson’s Ratio Repeatability Data for One Laboratory
and Two Polypropylene Materials
Values Expressed as a Dimensionless Ratio
Materials
Average Sr r
thickness. Each test result was based on five individual PP #1 Chord 0.412 0.009 0.026
determinations. Each laboratory obtained two test results for PP #1 Least Squares 0.413 0.011 0.032
each material. PP #2 Chord 0.391 0.009 0.026
PP #2 Least Squares 0.392 0.010 0.028

TABLE 8 Tensile Yield Elongation, for Eight Laboratories, Eight

Materials
Test Values Expressed in Percent Units single laboratory. The two materials used were unfilled
Material Speed, polypropylene types. Measurements were performed by a
in./min Average Sr SR r R
single technician on a single day. Each test result is an
LDPE 20 17.0 1.26 3.16 3.52 8.84 individual determination. Testing was run using two Type B-1
LDPE 20 14.6 1.02 2.38 2.86 6.67
LLDPE 20 15.7 1.37 2.85 3.85 7.97 extensometers for transverse and axial measurements at a test
LLDPE 20 16.6 1.59 3.30 4.46 9.24 speed of 5 mm/min.
LLDPE 20 11.7 1.27 2.88 3.56 8.08 13.1.3 In Tables 2-11, for the materials indicated, and for
LLDPE 20 15.2 1.27 2.59 3.55 7.25
HDPE 2 9.27 1.40 2.84 3.91 7.94 test results that derived from testing five specimens:
HDPE 2 9.63 1.23 2.75 3.45 7.71 13.1.3.1 Sr is the within-laboratory standard deviation of
the average; Ir = 2.83 Sr. (See 13.1.3.3 for application of Ir.)
13.1.3.2 SR is the between-laboratory standard deviation of
TABLE 9 Tensile Break Strength, for Nine Laboratories, Six the average; IR = 2.83 SR. (See 13.1.3.4 for application of IR.)
Materials
13.1.3.3 Repeatability—In comparing two test results for
Test Values Expressed in psi Units the same material, obtained by the same operator using the
Material Speed,
in./min Average Sr SR r R same equipment on the same day, those test results should be
LDPE 20 1592 52.3 74.9 146.4 209.7
judged not equivalent if they differ by more than the Ir value
LDPE 20 1750 66.6 102.9 186.4 288.1 for that material and condition.
LLDPE 20 4379 127.1 219.0 355.8 613.3 13.1.3.4 Reproducibility—In comparing two test results for
LLDPE 20 2840 78.6 143.5 220.2 401.8
LLDPE 20 1679 34.3 47.0 95.96 131.6
the same material, obtained by different operators using differ-
LLDPE 20 2660 119.1 166.3 333.6 465.6 ent equipment on different days, those test results should be
judged not equivalent if they differ by more than the IR value
for that material and condition. (This applies between different
TABLE 10 Tensile Break Elongation, for Nine Laboratories, Six laboratories or between different equipment within the same
Materials laboratory.)
Test Values Expressed in Percent Units 13.1.3.5 Any judgment in accordance with 13.1.3.3 and
Material Speed,
in./min Average Sr SR r R 13.1.3.4 will have an approximate 95 % (0.95) probability of
LDPE 20 567 31.5 59.5 88.2 166.6
being correct.
LDPE 20 569 61.5 89.2 172.3 249.7 13.1.3.6 Other formulations may give somewhat different
LLDPE 20 890 25.7 113.8 71.9 318.7 results.
LLDPE 20 64.4 6.68 11.7 18.7 32.6
LLDPE 20 803 25.7 104.4 71.9 292.5
13.1.3.7 For further information on the methodology used in
LLDPE 20 782 41.6 96.7 116.6 270.8 this section, see Practice E691.
13.1.3.8 The precision of this test method is very dependent
upon the uniformity of specimen preparation, standard prac-
13.1.1 Tables 5-10 are based on a round-robin test con- tices for which are covered in other documents.
ducted by the polyolefin subcommittee in 1988, involving eight 13.2 Bias—There are no recognized standards on which to
polyethylene materials tested in ten laboratories. For each base an estimate of bias for this test method.
material, all samples were molded at one source, but the
individual specimens were prepared at the laboratories that 14. Keywords
tested them. Each test result was the average of five individual 14.1 modulus of elasticity; percent elongation; plastics;
determinations. Each laboratory obtained three test results for tensile properties; tensile strength

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 D638 – 10
ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. TOE COMPENSATION

A1.1 In a typical stress-strain curve (Fig. A1.1) there is a elastic modulus can be determined by dividing the stress at any
toe region, AC, that does not represent a property of the point along the line CD (or its extension) by the strain at the
material. It is an artifact caused by a takeup of slack and same point (measured from Point B, defined as zero-strain).
alignment or seating of the specimen. In order to obtain correct
values of such parameters as modulus, strain, and offset yield A1.3 In the case of a material that does not exhibit any
point, this artifact must be compensated for to give the linear region (Fig. A1.2), the same kind of toe correction of the
corrected zero point on the strain or extension axis. zero-strain point can be made by constructing a tangent to the
maximum slope at the inflection point (H8). This is extended to
A1.2 In the case of a material exhibiting a region of intersect the strain axis at Point B8, the corrected zero-strain
Hookean (linear) behavior (Fig. A1.1), a continuation of the point. Using Point B8 as zero strain, the stress at any point (G8)
linear (CD) region of the curve is constructed through the on the curve can be divided by the strain at that point to obtain
zero-stress axis. This intersection (B) is the corrected zero- a secant modulus (slope of Line B8 G8). For those materials
strain point from which all extensions or strains must be with no linear region, any attempt to use the tangent through
measured, including the yield offset (BE), if applicable. The the inflection point as a basis for determination of an offset
yield point may result in unacceptable error.

NOTE 1—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph. NOTE 1—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph.
FIG. A1.1 Material with Hookean Region FIG. A1.2 Material with No Hookean Region

A2. DEFINITIONS OF TERMS AND SYMBOLS RELATING TO TENSION TESTING OF PLASTICS

A2.1 elastic limit—the greatest stress which a material is gage length of the test specimen by a tensile load. It is
capable of sustaining without any permanent strain remaining expressed in units of length, usually millimetres (inches). (Also
upon complete release of the stress. It is expressed in force per known as extension.)
unit area, usually megapascals (pounds-force per square inch).
NOTE A2.2—Elongation and strain values are valid only in cases where
NOTE A2.1—Measured values of proportional limit and elastic limit uniformity of specimen behavior within the gage length is present. In the
vary greatly with the sensitivity and accuracy of the testing equipment, case of materials exhibiting necking phenomena, such values are only of
eccentricity of loading, the scale to which the stress-strain diagram is qualitative utility after attainment of yield point. This is due to inability to
plotted, and other factors. Consequently, these values are usually replaced ensure that necking will encompass the entire length between the gage
by yield strength. marks prior to specimen failure.

A2.2 elongation—the increase in length produced in the A2.3 gage length—the original length of that portion of the

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 D638 – 10
specimen over which strain or change in length is determined. A2.8 percent elongation at break and yield:
A2.8.1 percent elongation at break—the percent elongation
A2.4 modulus of elasticity—the ratio of stress (nominal) to
at the moment of rupture of the test specimen.
corresponding strain below the proportional limit of a material.
A2.8.2 percent elongation at yield—the percent elongation
It is expressed in force per unit area, usually megapascals
at the moment the yield point (A2.22) is attained in the test
(pounds-force per square inch). (Also known as elastic modu-
specimen.
lus or Young’s modulus).
NOTE A2.3—The stress-strain relations of many plastics do not con- A2.9 percent reduction of area (nominal)—the difference
form to Hooke’s law throughout the elastic range but deviate therefrom between the original cross-sectional area measured at the point
even at stresses well below the elastic limit. For such materials the slope of rupture after breaking and after all retraction has ceased,
of the tangent to the stress-strain curve at a low stress is usually taken as expressed as a percent of the original area.
the modulus of elasticity. Since the existence of a true proportional limit
in plastics is debatable, the propriety of applying the term “modulus of
elasticity” to describe the stiffness or rigidity of a plastic has been
A2.10 percent reduction of area (true)—the difference
seriously questioned. The exact stress-strain characteristics of plastic between the original cross-sectional area of the test specimen
materials are very dependent on such factors as rate of stressing, and the minimum cross-sectional area within the gage bound-
temperature, previous specimen history, etc. However, such a value is aries prevailing at the moment of rupture, expressed as a
useful if its arbitrary nature and dependence on time, temperature, and percentage of the original area.
other factors are realized.
A2.11 Poisson’s Ratio—The absolute value of the ratio of
A2.5 necking—the localized reduction in cross section
transverse strain to the corresponding axial strain resulting
which may occur in a material under tensile stress.
from uniformly distributed axial stress below the proportional
A2.6 offset yield strength—the stress at which the strain limit of the material.
exceeds by a specified amount (the offset) an extension of the
initial proportional portion of the stress-strain curve. It is A2.12 proportional limit—the greatest stress which a
expressed in force per unit area, usually megapascals (pounds- material is capable of sustaining without any deviation from
force per square inch). proportionality of stress to strain (Hooke’s law). It is expressed
in force per unit area, usually megapascals (pounds-force per
NOTE A2.4—This measurement is useful for materials whose stress- square inch).
strain curve in the yield range is of gradual curvature. The offset yield
strength can be derived from a stress-strain curve as follows (Fig. A2.1): A2.13 rate of loading—the change in tensile load carried
On the strain axis lay off OM equal to the specified offset.
by the specimen per unit time. It is expressed in force per unit
Draw OA tangent to the initial straight-line portion of the stress-strain time, usually newtons (pounds-force) per minute. The initial
curve. rate of loading can be calculated from the initial slope of the
Through M draw a line MN parallel to OA and locate the intersection of load versus time diagram.
MN with the stress-strain curve.
The stress at the point of intersection r is the “offset yield strength.” The A2.14 rate of straining—the change in tensile strain per
specified value of the offset must be stated as a percent of the original gage unit time. It is expressed either as strain per unit time, usually
length in conjunction with the strength value. Example: 0.1 % offset yield
metres per metre (inches per inch) per minute, or percent
strength = ... MPa (psi), or yield strength at 0.1 % offset ... MPa (psi).
elongation per unit time, usually percent elongation per minute.
A2.7 percent elongation—the elongation of a test specimen The initial rate of straining can be calculated from the initial
expressed as a percent of the gage length. slope of the tensile strain versus time diagram.
NOTE A2.5—The initial rate of straining is synonymous with the rate of
crosshead movement divided by the initial distance between crossheads
only in a machine with constant rate of crosshead movement and when the
specimen has a uniform original cross section, does not “neck down,” and
does not slip in the jaws.

A2.15 rate of stressing (nominal)—the change in tensile

stress (nominal) per unit time. It is expressed in force per unit
area per unit time, usually megapascals (pounds-force per
square inch) per minute. The initial rate of stressing can be
calculated from the initial slope of the tensile stress (nominal)
versus time diagram.
NOTE A2.6—The initial rate of stressing as determined in this manner
has only limited physical significance. It does, however, roughly describe
the average rate at which the initial stress (nominal) carried by the test
specimen is applied. It is affected by the elasticity and flow characteristics
of the materials being tested. At the yield point, the rate of stressing (true)
may continue to have a positive value if the cross-sectional area is
FIG. A2.1 Offset Yield Strength decreasing.

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A2.16 secant modulus—the ratio of stress (nominal) to where:
corresponding strain at any specified point on the stress-strain dL = increment of elongation when the distance between
curve. It is expressed in force per unit area, usually megapas- the gage marks is L,
cals (pounds-force per square inch), and reported together with Lo = original distance between gage marks, and
the specified stress or strain. L = distance between gage marks at any time.
NOTE A2.7—This measurement is usually employed in place of modu- A2.22 yield point—the first point on the stress-strain curve
lus of elasticity in the case of materials whose stress-strain diagram does
at which an increase in strain occurs without an increase in
not demonstrate proportionality of stress to strain.
stress (Fig. A2.2).
A2.17 strain—the ratio of the elongation to the gage length NOTE A2.9—Only materials whose stress-strain curves exhibit a point
of the test specimen, that is, the change in length per unit of of zero slope may be considered as having a yield point.
original length. It is expressed as a dimensionless ratio. NOTE A2.10—Some materials exhibit a distinct “break” or discontinu-
A2.17.1 nominal strain at break—the strain at the moment ity in the stress-strain curve in the elastic region. This break is not a yield
point by definition. However, this point may prove useful for material
of rupture relative to the original grip separation. characterization in some cases.
A2.18 tensile strength (nominal)—the maximum tensile A2.23 yield strength—the stress at which a material exhib-
stress (nominal) sustained by the specimen during a tension its a specified limiting deviation from the proportionality of
test. When the maximum stress occurs at the yield point stress to strain. Unless otherwise specified, this stress will be
(A2.22), it shall be designated tensile strength at yield. When the stress at the yield point and when expressed in relation to
the maximum stress occurs at break, it shall be designated the tensile strength shall be designated either tensile strength at
tensile strength at break. yield or tensile stress at yield as required in A2.18 (Fig. A2.3).
(See offset yield strength.)
A2.19 tensile stress (nominal)—the tensile load per unit
area of minimum original cross section, within the gage
boundaries, carried by the test specimen at any given moment.
It is expressed in force per unit area, usually megapascals
(pounds-force per square inch).
NOTE A2.8—The expression of tensile properties in terms of the
minimum original cross section is almost universally used in practice. In
the case of materials exhibiting high extensibility or necking, or both
(A2.16), nominal stress calculations may not be meaningful beyond the
yield point (A2.22) due to the extensive reduction in cross-sectional area
that ensues. Under some circumstances it may be desirable to express the
tensile properties per unit of minimum prevailing cross section. These
properties are called true tensile properties (that is, true tensile stress, etc.).

A2.20 tensile stress-strain curve—a diagram in which

values of tensile stress are plotted as ordinates against corre-
sponding values of tensile strain as abscissas.

A2.21 true strain (see Fig. A2.2) is defined by the follow-

ing equation for ´T:
L
´T 5 * dL/L 5 ln L/L
Lo
o (A2.1)

FIG. A2.2 Illustration of True Strain Equation FIG. A2.3 Tensile Designations

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 D638 – 10
A2.24 Symbols—The following symbols may be used for A2.25 Relations between these various terms may be
the above terms: defined as follows:
Symbol Term s = W/Ao
W Load sT = W/A
DW Increment of load sU = W/Ao(where W is breaking load)
L Distance between gage marks at any time sUT = W/AT(where W is breaking load)
Lo Original distance between gage marks ´ = DL/Lo = (L − Lo)/Lo
Lu Distance between gage marks at moment of rupture ´U = (Lu − Lo)/Lo
DL Increment of distance between gage marks = elongation ´T = *LLo dL/L 5 ln L/Lo
A Minimum cross-sectional area at any time %El = [(L − Lo)/Lo] 3 100 = ´ 3 100
Ao Original cross-sectional area
DA Increment of cross-sectional area Percent reduction of area (nominal) = [(Ao − Au)/Ao] 3 100
Au Cross-sectional area at point of rupture measured after Percent reduction of area (true) = [(Ao − AT)/Ao] 3 100
breaking specimen Rate of loading = DW/Dt
AT Cross-sectional area at point of rupture, measured at the Rate of stressing (nominal) = Ds/D = (DW]/Ao)/Dt
moment of rupture Rate of straining = D´/Dt = (DL/Lo)Dt
t Time
Dt Increment of time For the case where the volume of the test specimen does not
s Tensile stress change during the test, the following three relations hold:
Ds Increment of stress
sT True tensile stress sT 5 s~1 1 ´! 5 sL/Lo (A2.2)
sU Tensile strength at break (nominal)
sUT Tensile strength at break (true) sUT 5 sU ~1 1 ´U! 5 sU Lu /Lo
´ Strain
D´ Increment of strain
A 5 Ao /~1 1 ´!
´U Total strain, at break
´T True strain
%El Percentage elongation
Y.P. Yield point
E Modulus of elasticity

A3. MEASUREMENT OF POISSON’S RATIO

A3.1 Scope A3.3. Terminology

A3.1.1 This test method covers the determination of Pois- A3.3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to this
son’s ratio obtained from strains resulting from uniaxial stress test method appear in Terminology D883 and Annex A2 of this
only. standard.
A3.1.2 Test data obtained by this test method are relevant
and appropriate for use in engineering design. A3.4 Significance and Use
A3.1.3 The values stated in SI units are regarded as the A3.4.1 When uniaxial tensile force is applied to a solid, the
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information solid stretches in the direction of the applied force (axially), but
only. it also contracts in both dimensions perpendicular to the
applied force. If the solid is homogeneous and isotropic, and
NOTE A3.1—This standard is not equivalent to ISO 527-1.
the material remains elastic under the action of the applied
A3.2 Referenced Documents force, the transverse strain bears a constant relationship to the
axial strain. This constant, called Poisson’s ratio, is defined as
A3.2.1 ASTM Standards:2 the negative ratio of the transverse (negative) to axial strain
D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing under uniaxial stress.
D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics A3.4.2 Poisson’s ratio is used for the design of structures in
D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid which all dimensional changes resulting from the application
Plastics Specimens of force need to be taken into account and in the application of
E83 Practice for Verification and Classification of Exten- the generalized theory of elasticity to structural analysis.
someter Systems NOTE A3.2—The accuracy of the determination of Poisson’s ratio is
E132 Test Method for Poisson’s Ratio at Room Tempera- usually limited by the accuracy of the transverse strain measurements
ture because the percentage errors in these measurements are usually greater
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to than in the axial strain measurements. Since a ratio rather than an absolute
quantity is measured, it is only necessary to know accurately the relative
Determine the Precision of a Test Method value of the calibration factors of the extensometers. Also, in general, the
E1012 Practice for Verification of Test Frame and Specimen value of the applied loads need not be known accurately.
Alignment Under Tensile and Compressive Axial Force
Application A3.5 Apparatus
A3.2.2 ISO Standard:4 A3.5.1 Refer to 5.1 and 5.3 of this standard for the require-
ISO 527–1 Determination of Tensile Properties ments of the testing machine and micrometers.

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 D638 – 10
A3.5.2 For measurement of Poisson’s Ratio use either a A3.9 Procedure
bi-axial extensometer or an axial extensometer in combination A3.9.1 Measure the width and thickness of each specimen
with a transverse extensometer. They must be capable of to the nearest 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) using the applicable test
recording axial strain and transverse strain simultaneously. The methods in D5947. Follow the guidelines specified in 10.1.1
extensometers shall be capable of measuring the change in and 10.1.2 of this standard.
strains with an accuracy of 1 % of the relevant value or better. A3.9.2 Poisson’s Ratio shall be determined at a speed of 5
NOTE A3.3—Strain gages are used as an alternative method to measure mm/min.
axial and transverse strain; however, proper techniques for mounting A3.9.3 Place the specimen in the grips of the testing
strain gauges are crucial to obtaining accurate data. Consult strain gauge machine, taking care to align the long axis of the specimen and
suppliers for instruction and training in these special techniques.
the grips with an imaginary line joining the points of attach-
A3.6 Test Specimen ment of the grips to the machine. The distance between the
A3.6.1 Specimen—The test specimen shall conform to the ends of the gripping surfaces, when using flat specimens, shall
dimensions shown in Fig. 1. The Type I specimen is the be as indicated in Fig. 1. Tighten the grips evenly and firmly to
preferred specimen and shall be used where sufficient material the degree necessary to prevent slippage of the specimen
having a thickness of 7 mm (0.28 in.) or less is available. during the test, but not to the point where the specimen would
A3.6.2 Preparation—Test specimens shall be prepared by be crushed.
machining operations, or die cutting, from materials in sheet, A3.9.4 Attach the biaxial extensometer or the axial and
plate, slab, or similar form or be prepared by molding the transverse extensometer combination to the specimen. The
material into the specimen shape to be tested. transverse extensometer should be attached to the width of the
specimen.
NOTE A3.4—When preparing specimens from certain composite lami-
A3.9.5 Apply a small preload (less than 5 N) to the
nates such as woven roving, or glass cloth, care must be exercised in
cutting the specimens parallel to the reinforcement, unless testing of specimen at a crosshead speed of 0.1 mm/min. This preload
specimens in a direction other than parallel with the reinforcement will eliminate any bending in the specimens.
constitutes a variable being studied. A3.9.6 Rebalance the extensometers to zero.
NOTE A3.5—Specimens prepared by injection molding have different A3.9.7 Run the test at 5 mm/min out to a minimum of 0.5 %
tensile properties than specimens prepared by machining or die-cutting strain before removing the extensometers, simultaneously re-
because of the orientation induced. This effect is more pronounced in
cording the strain readings from the extensometers at the same
specimens with narrow sections.
applied force. The precision of the value of Poisson’s Ratio
A3.6.3 All surfaces of the specimen shall be free of visible will depend on the number of data points of axial and
flaws, scratches, or imperfections. Marks left by coarse ma- transverse strain taken. It is recommended that the data
chining operations shall be carefully removed with a fine file or collection rate for the test be a minimum of 20 points per
abrasive, and the filed surfaces shall then be smoothed with second (but preferably higher). This is particularly important
abrasive paper (No. 00 or finer). The finishing sanding strokes for materials having a non linear stress to strain curve.
shall be made in a direction parallel to the long axis of the test A3.9.8 Make the toe compensation in accordance with
specimen. All flash shall be removed from a molded specimen, Annex A1. Determine the maximum strain (proportional limit)
taking great care not to disturb the molded surfaces. In at which the curve is linear. If this strain is greater than 0.25 %
machining a specimen, undercuts that would exceed the the Poisson’s Ratio is to be determined anywhere in this linear
dimensional tolerances shown in Fig. 1 shall be scrupulously portion of the curve below the proportional limit. If the
avoided. Care shall also be taken to avoid other common material does not exhibit a linear stress to strain relationship
machining errors. the Poisson’s Ratio shall be determined within the axial strain
A3.6.4 If it is necessary to place gage marks on the range of 0.0005 to 0.0025 mm/mm (0.05 to 0.25 %). If the ratio
specimen, this shall be done with a wax crayon or India ink that is determined in this manner it shall be noted in the report that
will not affect the material being tested. Gauge marks shall not a region of proportionality of stress to strain was not evident.
be scratched, punched, or impressed on the specimen.
A3.6.5 When testing materials that are suspected of anisot- NOTE A3.6—A suitable method for determination of linearity of the
ropy, duplicate sets of test specimens shall be prepared, having stress to strain curve is by making a series of tangent modulus measure-
ments at different axial strain levels. Values equivalent at each strain level
their long axes respectively parallel with, and normal to, the
indicate linearity. Values showing a downward trend with increasing strain
suspected direction of anisotropy. level indicate non linearity.
A3.7 Number of Test Specimens
A3.10 Calculation
A3.7.1 Test at least five specimens for each sample in the
case of isotropic materials. A3.10.1 Poisson’s Ratio—The axial strain, ´a, indicated by
A3.7.2 Test ten specimens, five normal to, and five parallel the axial extensometer, and the transverse strain, ´t, indicated
with, the principle axis of anisotropy, for each sample in the by the transverse extensometers, are plotted against the applied
case of anisotropic materials. load, P, as shown in Fig. 4.
A3.10.1.1 For those materials where there is proportionality
A3.8 Conditioning of stress to strain and it is possible to determine a modulus of
A3.8.1 Specimens shall be conditioned and tested in accor- elasticity, a straight line is drawn through each set of points
dance with the requirement shown in Section 9 of this standard. within the load range used for determination of modulus, and

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 D638 – 10
the slopes d´a / dP and d´t / dP, of those lines are determined. A3.11.1.4 Conditioning procedure used,
The use of a least squares method of calculation will reduce A3.11.1.5 Atmospheric conditions in test room,
errors resulting from drawing lines. Poisson’s Ratio, |µ|, is then A3.11.1.6 Number of specimens tested,
calculated as follows: A3.11.1.7 Speed of testing,
|µ| 5 ~d´t / dP! / ~d´a / dP! (A3.1) A3.11.1.8 Classification of extensometers used. A descrip-
tion of measuring technique and calculations employed,
where: A3.11.1.9 Poisson’s ratio, average value, standard devia-
d´t = change in transverse strain, tion, and statement of whether there was proportionality within
d´a = change in axial strain, and the strain range,
dP = change in applied load; A3.11.1.10 Date of test, and
|µ| 5 ~d´t! / ~d´a! (A3.2) A3.11.1.11 Revision date of Test Method D618.
A3.10.1.1.1 The errors that are introduced by drawing a
straight line through the points are reduced by applying the A3.12 Precision and Bias
least squares method. A3.12.1 Precision—The repeatability standard deviation
A3.10.1.2 For those materials where there is no proportion- has been determined to be the following (see Table A3.1.) An
ality of stress to strain evident determine the ratio of d´t/ d´a attempt to develop a full precision and bias statement for this
when d´a = 0.002 (based on axial strain range of 0.0005 to test method will be made at a later date. For this reason, data
0.0025 mm/mm) and after toe compensation has been made. on precision and bias cannot be given. Because this test method
|µ| 5 d´t! / 0.002 (A3.3) does not contain a round-robin based numerical precision and
bias statement, it shall not be used as a referee test method in
A3.11 Report case of dispute. Anyone wishing to participate in the develop-
A3.11.1 Report the following information: ment of precision and bias data should contact the Chairman,
A3.11.1.1 Complete identification of the material tested, Subcommittee D20.10 Mechanical Properties, ASTM Interna-
including type, source, manufacturer’s code numbers, form, tional, 100 Barr Harbor, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
principal dimensions, previous history, etc.,
A3.11.1.2 Method of preparing test specimens, A3.13 Keywords
A3.11.1.3 Type of test specimen and dimensions, A3.13.1 axial strain; Poisson’s ratio; transverse strain

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 D638 – 10
TABLE A3.1 Poisson’s Ratio Based on One Laboratory
Material Extensometer Type Average VrA VRB rC RD
PP Copolymer 2–point 0.408 0.011 0.031
PP Copolymer 4–point 0.392 0.010 0.028
PP Homopolymer with 20 % Glass 2–point 0.428 0.013 0.036
PP Homopolymer with 20 % Glass 4–point 0.410 0.015 0.042
A
Sr = within laboratory standard deviation for the indicated material. It is obtained by first pooling the with-laboratory standard deviations of the test results from all the
participating laboratories:
Sr 5 $@~S1!2 1 ~S2!2 1 …… 1 ~Sn!2#/n%1/2
B
SR = between-laboratories reproducibility, expressed as standard deviation: SR = [Sr2 + SL2)1/2
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 Sr
D
R = between-laboratories critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 SR

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D638 - 08)
that may impact the use of this standard. (May 15, 2010)

(1) Edited conditioning and test condition clauses.

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