ASTM D3410 | Composites | Shear Testing
ASTM D3410 is a testing standard designed to measure the compressive properties of polymer matrix composite materials reinforced by high-modulus fibers. This test procedure introduces the compressive force into the specimen through shear at grip interfaces. ASTM D3410 is commonly used for composites made from unidirectional tape, textiles, short fibers, and it can be adapted for similar products.
This test method measures the ultimate compressive strain, the compressive modulus of elasticity, Poisson’s ratio, and transition strain. The test utilizes a standard universal testing machine and a specially-designed fixture with wedge grip interfaces as described in the specification. A universal testing machine with two loading rates, with at least one moveable along the testing axis is needed to complete the test procedure. The specially-designed fixture should be attached to the upper cross head and a flat platen that is at least 20 mm (0.75 in) should be attached to the lower crosshead. Before conducting ASTM D3410, it is important to read the entire specification in the relevant ASTM publication.
ASTM D3410 | Composites | Shear Testing
- Prepare rectangular cross sections as test specimens with a max specimen width variation of ±1 % and a max specimen thickness variation of ±2 %.
- Place the specimen in the fixture by centering it between the grip interfaces. Make sure that the entire grip length contacts the grip faces when the fixture is closed.
- Attach the strain gauges to the mid-span, mid-width location of the specimen. Make sure the load reading is zero before starting the test.
- Apply the force at a constant strain rate until failure. The suggested rates are found in the testing standard.
- Compressive Stress/Ultimate Compressive Stress
- Compressive Strain and Ultimate Compression Strain
- Compressive Modulus of Elasticity
- Compressive Poisson’s ratio
- Transition Strain
ASTM D3410 | Composites | Shear Testing
| ASTM D3410 | Recommended Equipment |
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| Testing System | |
| Fixturing |