Tensile Testing of Polymers and Composites Materials

Tensile testing is a mechanical testing technique which involves applying tension by pulling the sample or specimen and observing how the material reacts to the forces being applied. As well as determining the strength of the material, the test will demonstrate the elastic limit and the break or rupture point. Tensile testing of polymers and composites materials do just that. Tensile testing for composites and polymers measure the force needed to break the specimen and how far the plastic will stretch or elongate to that point. The reasons behind carrying out such tensile strength tests as this is to assist in the selection of appropriate materials to be used within production; and to meet industry specifications. These tests also assist in providing quality control checks for the materials being tested. They are applicable to any industry where polymers and composites materials are being used in research and design, production and manufacturing.