ASTM D412 – Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers

Standard: ASTM D412 Standard Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers—Tension

Scope: Per ASTM D412: "These test methods cover procedures used to evaluate the tensile (tension) properties of vulcanized thermoset rubbers and thermoplastic elastomers. These methods are not applicable to ebonite and similar hard, low elongation materials."

Products: Vulcanized Thermoset Rubber, Thermoplastic Elastomer

Procedure: Dumbbell-shaped specimens are prepared, and two bench marks are precisely placed on the specimens to establish the gage length. The initial length between these marks is then measured before placing the specimens into the grips of the test machine. The test machine stretches the specimens at a grip separation rate of 20 inches/minute until failure. Throughout the test, load and deflection (or stress and strain) measurements are taken in order to characterize the materials under test.

Result: Test results such as tensile stress, yield stress/strain, tensile strength, and elongation may be reported.