Description
ASTM D882 is an international test standard designed to evaluate the tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting and films. This standard applies to plastics with a thickness of less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.). For plastics 1.0 mm or thicker, ASTM D638 should be used instead.
ASTM D882 is similar to ASTM D638, but they differ in two key aspects:
- Specimen Thickness –
ASTM D882 is for thin sheeting, while ASTM D638 is for thicker sheets. - Specimen Preparation –
ASTM D882 samples are cut into rectangular strips, whereas ASTM D638 specimens typically use a dumbbell shape.
This test method measures specimen extension using grip separation, extension indicators, or displacement of gauge marks. Industries such as plastics, films, and packaging frequently rely on this standard. ASTM standards are widely adopted globally, including in Malaysia, where the government and industries utilize ASTM D882.
Tensile tests determine:
- Force required to break a specimen
- Extent of specimen elongation before breaking
- Tensile modulus calculations using a stress-strain diagram
This data is essential for Research & Development (R&D) and Quality Assurance (QA/QC) teams to ensure product compliance. Testing is conducted using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM), also known as a tensile testing machine.
Properties Measured in ASTM D882
- Elongation
- Tensile Modulus
- Tensile Yield Strength
- Tensile Strength at Break
Test Specimens
- Thin Plastic Sheeting or Film
Recommended Grips
To ensure specimen stability and prevent slipping, pneumatic or manual grips with rubber-coated inserts are recommended.
- Pneumatic Grip
- Generates gripping force via pneumatic cylinders.
- Operated using finger toggles or foot pedals for easy specimen loading.
- Side Action Grip
- Suitable for fabric, textile webbing, metal, film, rubber, and plastic.
Extensometers
An extensometer is not required, as the system’s built-in crosshead displacement indicator is sufficient. This reduces costs and simplifies testing.
Recommended UTM Machines
UTM machines with a capacity of 2kN-20kN are recommended, depending on the plastic’s strength. Smaller dual-column machines are ideal for this test.
- VEW 2307
- Desktop microcomputer-controlled tensile testing machine.
- Compact design with aluminum build for durability.
- Ideal for quality control in production lines.
- Suitable for non-metallic and metallic materials with loads below 2kN.
- VEW 2308
- Mechanically-electrically integrated system with force-measuring sensor, microprocessor, and load drive.
- High-precision electronic motor with five-speed settings.
- Supports testing of stretch, compression, bending, shear, peeling, tearing, and crack resistance.
- Used in industries like rubber, plastics, leather, metal, textiles, paper, aerospace, packaging, construction, and automotive.
Test Procedure
- Start the test at a constant rate until the specimen fails/breaks.
- Prepare the specimen as described in the method.
- Load the specimen into the grips.
- Clamp the top grip first, then carefully clamp the bottom grip.
- Ensure the specimen is properly aligned.
- Zero all testing machines before starting the test.
- Apply a slight preload to align the grips and remove slack.