Designation: D790 – 10

Standard Test Methods for

Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics
and Electrical Insulating Materials1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D790; 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* priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of flexural bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
properties of unreinforced and reinforced plastics, including NOTE 1—These test methods are not technically equivalent to ISO 178.
high-modulus composites and electrical insulating materials in
the form of rectangular bars molded directly or cut from sheets, 2. Referenced Documents
plates, or molded shapes. These test methods are generally 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
applicable to both rigid and semirigid materials. However, D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
flexural strength cannot be determined for those materials that D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
do not break or that do not fail in the outer surface of the test D883 Terminology Relating to Plastics
specimen within the 5.0 % strain limit of these test methods. D4000 Classification System for Specifying Plastic Materi-
These test methods utilize a three-point loading system applied als
to a simply supported beam. A four-point loading system D4101 Specification for Polypropylene Injection and Extru-
method can be found in Test Method D6272. sion Materials
1.1.1 Procedure A, designed principally for materials that D5947 Test Methods for Physical Dimensions of Solid
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break at comparatively small deflections. Plastics Specimens

1.1.2 Procedure B, designed particularly for those materials D6272 Test Method for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced
that undergo large deflections during testing. and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials
1.1.3 Procedure A shall be used for measurement of flexural by Four-Point Bending
properties, particularly flexural modulus, unless the material E4 Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines
specification states otherwise. Procedure B may be used for E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
measurement of flexural strength only. Tangent modulus data Determine the Precision of a Test Method
obtained by Procedure A tends to exhibit lower standard 2.2 ISO Standard:3
deviations than comparable data obtained by means of Proce- ISO 178 Plastics—Determination of Flexural Properties
dure B.
1.2 Comparative tests may be run in accordance with either 3. Terminology
procedure, provided that the procedure is found satisfactory for 3.1 Definitions—Definitions of terms applying to these test
the material being tested. methods appear in Terminology D883 and Annex A1 of Test
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the Method D638.
standard. The values provided in parentheses are for informa-
tion only. 4. Summary of Test Method
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the 4.1 A bar of rectangular cross section rests on two supports
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the and is loaded by means of a loading nose midway between the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- supports. A support span-to-depth ratio of 16:1 shall be used
unless there is reason to suspect that a larger span-to-depth

1 2
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Plastics and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.10 on Mechanical contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Properties. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved April 1, 2010. Published April 2010. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2007 as D790 – 07 ´1. DOI: Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/D0790-10. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.

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

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 D790 – 10
ratio may be required, as may be the case for certain laminated such that the total elastic deformation of the system does not
materials (see Section 7 and Note 7 for guidance). exceed 1 % of the total deflection of the test specimen during
4.2 The specimen is deflected until rupture occurs in the testing, or appropriate corrections shall be made. The load
outer surface of the test specimen or until a maximum strain indicating mechanism shall be essentially free from inertial lag
(see 12.7) of 5.0 % is reached, whichever occurs first. at the crosshead rate used. The accuracy of the testing machine
4.3 Procedure A employs a strain rate of 0.01 mm/mm/min shall be verified in accordance with Practices E4.
(0.01 in./in./min) and is the preferred procedure for this test 6.2 Loading Noses and Supports—The loading nose and
method, while Procedure B employs a strain rate of 0.10

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supports shall have cylindrical surfaces. The default radii of the
mm/mm/min (0.10 in./in./min). loading nose and supports shall be 5.0 6 0.1 mm (0.197 6
0.004 in.) unless otherwise specified in an ASTM material
5. Significance and Use
specification or as agreed upon between the interested parties.
5.1 Flexural properties as determined by these test methods When the use of an ASTM material specification, or an agreed
are especially useful for quality control and specification upon modification, results in a change to the radii of the
purposes. loading nose and supports, the results shall be clearly identified
5.2 Materials that do not fail by the maximum strain as being obtained from a modified version of this test method
allowed under these test methods (3-point bend) may be more and shall include the specification (when available) from which
suited to a 4-point bend test. The basic difference between the the modification was specified, for example, Test Method D790
two test methods is in the location of the maximum bending in accordance with Specification D4101.
moment and maximum axial fiber stresses. The maximum axial 6.2.1 Other Radii for Loading Noses and Supports—When
fiber stresses occur on a line under the loading nose in 3-point other than default loading noses and supports are used, in order
bending and over the area between the loading noses in 4-point to avoid excessive indentation, or failure due to stress concen-
bending. tration directly under the loading nose, they must comply with
5.3 Flexural properties may vary with specimen depth, the following requirements: they shall have a minimum radius
temperature, atmospheric conditions, and the difference in rate of 3.2 mm (1⁄8 in.) for all specimens. For specimens 3.2 mm or
of straining as specified in Procedures A and B (see also Note greater in depth, the radius of the supports may be up to 1.6
7). times the specimen depth. They shall be this large if significant
5.4 Before proceeding with these test methods, reference indentation or compressive failure occurs. The arc of the
should be made to the ASTM specification of the material loading nose in contact with the specimen shall be sufficiently
being tested. Any test specimen preparation, conditioning, large to prevent contact of the specimen with the sides of the
dimensions, or testing parameters, or combination thereof, nose. The maximum radius of the loading nose shall be no
covered in the ASTM material specification shall take prece- more than four times the specimen depth.
dence over those mentioned in these test methods. Table 1 in
6.3 Micrometers— Suitable micrometers for measuring the
Classification System D4000 lists the ASTM material specifi-
width and thickness of the test specimen to an incremental
cations that currently exist for plastics.
discrimination of at least 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) should be used.
6. Apparatus All width and thickness measurements of rigid and semirigid
plastics may be measured with a hand micrometer with ratchet.
6.1 Testing Machine— A properly calibrated testing ma-
A suitable instrument for measuring the thickness of nonrigid
chine that can be operated at constant rates of crosshead motion
test specimens shall have: a contact measuring pressure of
over the range indicated, and in which the error in the load
25 6 2.5 kPa (3.6 6 0.36 psi), a movable circular contact foot
measuring system shall not exceed 61 % of the maximum load
6.35 6 0.025 mm (0.250 6 0.001 in.) in diameter and a lower
expected to be measured. It shall be equipped with a deflection
fixed anvil large enough to extend beyond the contact foot in
measuring device. The stiffness of the testing machine shall be
all directions and being parallel to the contact foot within 0.005
mm (0.002 in.) over the entire foot area. Flatness of foot and
TABLE 1 Flexural Strength
anvil shall conform to the portion of the Calibration section of
Values Expressed in Units of %
of 103 psi
Test Methods D5947.
Material Mean, 103 psi
V rA V RB rC RD
7. Test Specimens
ABS 9.99 1.59 6.05 4.44 17.2
DAP thermoset 14.3 6.58 6.58 18.6 18.6 7.1 The specimens may be cut from sheets, plates, or
Cast acrylic 16.3 1.67 11.3 4.73 32.0
GR polyester 19.5 1.43 2.14 4.05 6.08
molded shapes, or may be molded to the desired finished
GR polycarbonate 21.0 5.16 6.05 14.6 17.1 dimensions. The actual dimensions used in Section 4.2, Cal-
SMC 26.0 4.76 7.19 13.5 20.4 culation, shall be measured in accordance with Test Methods
A
Vr = within-laboratory coefficient of variation for the indicated material. It is D5947.
obtained by first pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test
results from all of the participating laboratories: Sr = [[(s1)2 + (s2)2 . . . + ( sn)2]/n] NOTE 2—Any necessary polishing of specimens shall be done only in
1/2 then Vr = (Sr divided by the overall average for the material) 3 100.
B
the lengthwise direction of the specimen.
Vr = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as the coefficient of varia-
tion: SR = {Sr2 + SL2}1/2 where SL is the standard deviation of laboratory means. 7.2 Sheet Materials (Except Laminated Thermosetting Ma-
Then: VR = (S R divided by the overall average for the material) 3 100.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 Vr. terials and Certain Materials Used for Electrical Insulation,
D
R = between-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 VR. Including Vulcanized Fiber and Glass Bonded Mica):

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 D790 – 10
7.2.1 Materials 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.) or Greater in Thickness— 61). Thicker specimens should be avoided if they exhibit
For flatwise tests, the depth of the specimen shall be the significant shrink marks or bubbles when molded.
thickness of the material. For edgewise tests, the width of the 7.5 High-Strength Reinforced Composites, Including Highly
specimen shall be the thickness of the sheet, and the depth shall Orthotropic Laminates—The span-to-depth ratio shall be cho-
not exceed the width (see Notes 3 and 4). For all tests, the sen such that failure occurs in the outer fibers of the specimens
support span shall be 16 (tolerance 61) times the depth of the and is due only to the bending moment (see Note 7). A
beam. Specimen width shall not exceed one fourth of the span-to-depth ratio larger than 16:1 may be necessary (32:1 or
support span for specimens greater than 3.2 mm (1⁄8 in.) in 40:1 are recommended). For some highly anisotropic compos-
depth. Specimens 3.2 mm or less in depth shall be 12.7 mm (1⁄2 ites, shear deformation can significantly influence modulus
in.) in width. The specimen shall be long enough to allow for measurements, even at span-to-depth ratios as high as 40:1.
overhanging on each end of at least 10 % of the support span, Hence, for these materials, an increase in the span-to-depth
but in no case less than 6.4 mm (1⁄4 in.) on each end. Overhang ratio to 60:1 is recommended to eliminate shear effects when
shall be sufficient to prevent the specimen from slipping modulus data are required, it should also be noted that the
through the supports. flexural modulus of highly anisotropic laminates is a strong
function of ply-stacking sequence and will not necessarily
NOTE 3—Whenever possible, the original surface of the sheet shall be
unaltered. However, where testing machine limitations make it impossible
correlate with tensile modulus, which is not stacking-sequence
to follow the above criterion on the unaltered sheet, one or both surfaces dependent.
shall be machined to provide the desired dimensions, and the location of NOTE 7—As a general rule, support span-to-depth ratios of 16:1 are
the specimens with reference to the total depth shall be noted. The value satisfactory when the ratio of the tensile strength to shear strength is less
obtained on specimens with machined surfaces may differ from those than 8 to 1, but the support span-to-depth ratio must be increased for
obtained on specimens with original surfaces. Consequently, any specifi- composite laminates having relatively low shear strength in the plane of
cations for flexural properties on thicker sheets must state whether the the laminate and relatively high tensile strength parallel to the support
original surfaces are to be retained or not. When only one surface was span.
machined, it must be stated whether the machined surface was on the
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tension or compression side of the beam. 8. Number of Test Specimens

NOTE 4—Edgewise tests are not applicable for sheets that are so thin
8.1 Test at least five specimens for each sample in the case
that specimens meeting these requirements cannot be cut. If specimen
depth exceeds the width, buckling may occur. of isotropic materials or molded specimens.
8.2 For each sample of anisotropic material in sheet form,
7.2.2 Materials Less than 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.) in Thickness— test at least five specimens for each of the following conditions.
The specimen shall be 50.8 mm (2 in.) long by 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.) Recommended conditions are flatwise and edgewise tests on
wide, tested flatwise on a 25.4-mm (1-in.) support span. specimens cut in lengthwise and crosswise directions of the
NOTE 5—Use of the formulas for simple beams cited in these test sheet. For the purposes of this test, “lengthwise” designates the
methods for calculating results presumes that beam width is small in principal axis of anisotropy and shall be interpreted to mean the
comparison with the support span. Therefore, the formulas do not apply direction of the sheet known to be stronger in flexure. “Cross-
rigorously to these dimensions. wise” indicates the sheet direction known to be the weaker in
NOTE 6—Where machine sensitivity is such that specimens of these flexure and shall be at 90° to the lengthwise direction.
dimensions cannot be measured, wider specimens or shorter support
spans, or both, may be used, provided the support span-to-depth ratio is at 9. Conditioning
least 14 to 1. All dimensions must be stated in the report (see also Note 5).
9.1 Conditioning—Condition the test specimens in accor-
7.3 Laminated Thermosetting Materials and Sheet and dance with Procedure A of Practice D618 unless otherwise
Plate Materials Used for Electrical Insulation, Including specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica-
Vulcanized Fiber and Glass-Bonded Mica—For paper-base tion. Conditioning time is specified as a minimum. Tempera-
and fabric-base grades over 25.4 mm (1 in.) in nominal ture and humidity tolerances shall be in accordance with
thickness, the specimens shall be machined on both surfaces to Section 7 of Practice D618 unless specified differently by
a depth of 25.4 mm. For glass-base and nylon-base grades, contract or material specification.
specimens over 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.) in nominal depth shall be 9.2 Test Conditions—Conduct the tests at the same tempera-
machined on both surfaces to a depth of 12.7 mm. The support ture and humidity used for conditioning with tolerances in
span-to-depth ratio shall be chosen such that failures occur in accordance with Section 7 of Practice D618 unless otherwise
the outer fibers of the specimens, due only to the bending specified by contract or the relevant ASTM material specifica-
moment (see Note 7). Therefore, a ratio larger than 16:1 may tion.
be necessary (32:1 or 40:1 are recommended). When laminated
materials exhibit low compressive strength perpendicular to the 10. Procedure
laminations, they shall be loaded with a large radius loading 10.1 Procedure A:
nose (up to four times the specimen depth to prevent premature 10.1.1 Use an untested specimen for each measurement.
damage to the outer fibers. Measure the width and depth of the specimen to the nearest
7.4 Molding Materials (Thermoplastics and Thermosets)— 0.03 mm (0.001 in.) at the center of the support span. For
The recommended specimen for molding materials is 127 by specimens less than 2.54 mm (0.100 in.) in depth, measure the
12.7 by 3.2 mm (5 by 1⁄2 by 1⁄8 in.) tested flatwise on a support depth to the nearest 0.003 mm (0.0005 in.). These measure-
span, resulting in a support span-to-depth ratio of 16 (tolerance ments shall be made in accordance with Test Methods D5947.

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 D790 – 10
10.1.2 Determine the support span to be used as described in L = support span, mm (in.), and
Section 7 and set the support span to within 1 % of the d = depth of beam, mm (in.).
determined value.
NOTE 8—For some materials that do not yield or break within the 5 %
10.1.3 For flexural fixtures that have continuously adjust- strain limit when tested by Procedure A, the increased strain rate allowed
able spans, measure the span accurately to the nearest 0.1 mm by Procedure B (see 10.2) may induce the specimen to yield or break, or
(0.004 in.) for spans less than 63 mm (2.5 in.) and to the nearest both, within the required 5 % strain limit.
0.3 mm (0.012 in.) for spans greater than or equal to 63 mm NOTE 9—Beyond 5 % strain, this test method is not applicable. Some
(2.5 in.). Use the actual measured span for all calculations. For other mechanical property might be more relevant to characterize mate-
flexural fixtures that have fixed machined span positions, verify rials that neither yield nor break by either Procedure A or Procedure B
the span distance the same as for adjustable spans at each within the 5 % strain limit (for example, Test Method D638 may be
considered).
machined position. This distance becomes the span for that
position and is used for calculations applicable to all subse- 10.2 Procedure B:
quent tests conducted at that position. See Annex A2 for 10.2.1 Use an untested specimen for each measurement.
information on the determination of and setting of the span. 10.2.2 Test conditions shall be identical to those described
10.1.4 Calculate the rate of crosshead motion as follows and in 10.1, except that the rate of straining of the outer surface of
set the machine for the rate of crosshead motion as calculated the test specimen shall be 0.10 mm/mm (in./in.)/min.
by Eq 1: 10.2.3 If no break has occurred in the specimen by the time
the maximum strain in the outer surface of the test specimen
R 5 ZL 2/6d (1)
has reached 0.05 mm/mm (in./in.), discontinue the test (see
where: Note 9).
R = rate of crosshead motion, mm (in.)/min,
L = support span, mm (in.), 11. Retests
d = depth of beam, mm (in.), and 11.1 Values for properties at rupture shall not be calculated
Z = rate of straining of the outer fiber, mm/mm/min (in./ for any specimen that breaks at some obvious, fortuitous flaw,
in./min). Z shall be equal to 0.01. unless such flaws constitute a variable being studied. Retests
In no case shall the actual crosshead rate differ from that shall be made for any specimen on which values are not
calculated using Eq 1, by more than 610 %. calculated.
10.1.5 Align the loading nose and supports so that the axes
of the cylindrical surfaces are parallel and the loading nose is 12. Calculation
midway between the supports. The parallelism of the apparatus 12.1 Toe compensation shall be made in accordance with
may be checked by means of a plate with parallel grooves into Annex A1 unless it can be shown that the toe region of the
which the loading nose and supports will fit when properly curve is not due to the take-up of slack, seating of the
aligned (see A2.3). Center the specimen on the supports, with specimen, or other artifact, but rather is an authentic material
the long axis of the specimen perpendicular to the loading nose response.
and supports. 12.2 Flexural Stress (sf)—When a homogeneous elastic
10.1.6 Apply the load to the specimen at the specified material is tested in flexure as a simple beam supported at two
crosshead rate, and take simultaneous load-deflection data. points and loaded at the midpoint, the maximum stress in the
Measure deflection either by a gage under the specimen in outer surface of the test specimen occurs at the midpoint. This
contact with it at the center of the support span, the gage being stress may be calculated for any point on the load-deflection
mounted stationary relative to the specimen supports, or by curve by means of the following equation (see Notes 10-12):
measurement of the motion of the loading nose relative to the
supports. Load-deflection curves may be plotted to determine sf 5 3PL/2bd2 (3)
the flexural strength, chord or secant modulus or the tangent
modulus of elasticity, and the total work as measured by the where:
area under the load-deflection curve. Perform the necessary toe s = stress in the outer fibers at midpoint, MPa (psi),
compensation (see Annex A1) to correct for seating and P = load at a given point on the load-deflection curve, N
indentation of the specimen and deflections in the machine. (lbf),
10.1.7 Terminate the test when the maximum strain in the L = support span, mm (in.),
outer surface of the test specimen has reached 0.05 mm/mm b = width of beam tested, mm (in.), and
(in./in.) or at break if break occurs prior to reaching the d = depth of beam tested, mm (in.).
maximum strain (Notes 8 and 9). The deflection at which this NOTE 10—Eq 3 applies strictly to materials for which stress is linearly
strain will occur may be calculated by letting r equal 0.05 proportional to strain up to the point of rupture and for which the strains
mm/mm (in./in.) in Eq 2: are small. Since this is not always the case, a slight error will be
introduced if Eq 3 is used to calculate stress for materials that are not true
D 5 rL2/6d (2) Hookean materials. The equation is valid for obtaining comparison data
and for specification purposes, but only up to a maximum fiber strain of
where: 5 % in the outer surface of the test specimen for specimens tested by the
D = midspan deflection, mm (in.), procedures described herein.
r = strain, mm/mm (in./in.), NOTE 11—When testing highly orthotropic laminates, the maximum

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 D790 – 10
stress may not always occur in the outer surface of the test specimen.4
Laminated beam theory must be applied to determine the maximum
tensile stress at failure. If Eq 3 is used to calculate stress, it will yield an
apparent strength based on homogeneous beam theory. This apparent
strength is highly dependent on the ply-stacking sequence of highly
orthotropic laminates.
NOTE 12—The preceding calculation is not valid if the specimen slips
excessively between the supports.
12.3 Flexural Stress for Beams Tested at Large Support
Spans (s f)—If support span-to-depth ratios greater than 16 to
1 are used such that deflections in excess of 10 % of the
support span occur, the stress in the outer surface of the
specimen for a simple beam can be reasonably approximated
with the following equation (see Note 13):
sf 5 ~3PL/2bd2!@1 1 6~D/L! 2 2 4~d/L!~D/L!# (4)
where:
sf, P, L, b, and d are the same as for Eq 3, and
D = deflection of the centerline of the specimen at the
middle of the support span, mm (in.).

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NOTE 13—When large support span-to-depth ratios are used, significant
end forces are developed at the support noses which will affect the
moment in a simple supported beam. Eq 4 includes additional terms that NOTE—Curve a: Specimen that breaks before yielding.
are an approximate correction factor for the influence of these end forces Curve b: Specimen that yields and then breaks before the 5 % strain
in large support span-to-depth ratio beams where relatively large deflec- limit.
tions exist. Curve c: Specimen that neither yields nor breaks before the 5 % strain
12.4 Flexural Strength (sfM)—Maximum flexural stress limit.
FIG. 1 Typical Curves of Flexural Stress (ßf) Versus Flexural
sustained by the test specimen (see Note 11) during a bending Strain (´f)
test. It is calculated according to Eq 3 or Eq 4. Some materials
that do not break at strains of up to 5 % may give a load
deflection curve that shows a point at which the load does not
from the load-deflection curve at the deflection corresponding
increase with an increase in strain, that is, a yield point (Fig. 1,
to the desired strain (for highly orthotropic laminates, see Note
Curve B), Y. The flexural strength may be calculated for these
11).
materials by letting P (in Eq 3 or Eq 4) equal this point, Y.
12.8 Flexural Strain, ´f—Nominal fractional change in the
12.5 Flexural Offset Yield Strength—Offset yield strength is
length of an element of the outer surface of the test specimen
the stress at which the stress-strain curve deviates by a given
at midspan, where the maximum strain occurs. It may be
strain (offset) from the tangent to the initial straight line portion
calculated for any deflection using Eq 5:
of the stress-strain curve. The value of the offset must be given
whenever this property is calculated. ´f 5 6Dd/L2 (5)

NOTE 14—This value may differ from flexural strength defined in 12.4.
Both methods of calculation are described in the annex to Test Method where:
D638. ´f = strain in the outer surface, mm/mm (in./in.),
12.6 Flexural Stress at Break (sfB )—Flexural stress at D = maximum deflection of the center of the beam, mm
break of the test specimen during a bending test. It is calculated (in.),
according to Eq 3 or Eq 4. Some materials may give a load L = support span, mm (in.), and
deflection curve that shows a break point, B, without a yield d = depth, mm (in.).
point (Fig. 1, Curve a) in which case s fB = sfM. Other 12.9 Modulus of Elasticity:
materials may give a yield deflection curve with both a yield 12.9.1 Tangent Modulus of Elasticity—The tangent modu-
and a break point, B (Fig. 1, Curve b). The flexural stress at lus of elasticity, often called the “modulus of elasticity,” is the
break may be calculated for these materials by letting P (in Eq ratio, within the elastic limit, of stress to corresponding strain.
3 or Eq 4) equal this point, B. It is calculated by drawing a tangent to the steepest initial
12.7 Stress at a Given Strain—The stress in the outer straight-line portion of the load-deflection curve and using Eq
surface of a test specimen at a given strain may be calculated 6 (for highly anisotropic composites, see Note 15).
in accordance with Eq 3 or Eq 4 by letting P equal the load read EB 5 L3m/4bd 3 (6)

4
For a discussion of these effects, see Zweben, C., Smith, W. S., and Wardle, M. where:
W., “Test Methods for Fiber Tensile Strength, Composite Flexural Modulus and EB = modulus of elasticity in bending, MPa (psi),
Properties of Fabric-Reinforced Laminates, “ Composite Materials: Testing and
L = support span, mm (in.),
Design (Fifth Conference), ASTM STP 674 , 1979, pp. 228–262.

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 D790 – 10

b = width of beam tested, mm (in.), 12.10 Arithmetic Mean— For each series of tests, the
d = depth of beam tested, mm (in.), and arithmetic mean of all values obtained shall be calculated to
m = slope of the tangent to the initial straight-line portion three significant figures and reported as the “average value” for
of the load-deflection curve, N/mm (lbf/in.) of deflec- the particular property in question.
tion. 12.11 Standard Deviation—The standard deviation (esti-
mated) shall be calculated as follows and be reported to two
NOTE 15—Shear deflections can seriously reduce the apparent modulus
of highly anisotropic composites when they are tested at low span-to- significant figures:
depth ratios.4 For this reason, a span-to-depth ratio of 60 to 1 is
s 5 =~ (X 2 2 nX̄ 2! / ~n 2 1! (8)
recommended for flexural modulus determinations on these composites.
Flexural strength should be determined on a separate set of replicate
specimens at a lower span-to-depth ratio that induces tensile failure in the where:
outer fibers of the beam along its lower face. Since the flexural modulus s = estimated standard deviation,
of highly anisotropic laminates is a critical function of ply-stacking
X = value of single observation,
sequence, it will not necessarily correlate with tensile modulus, which is
not stacking-sequence dependent.
n = number of observations, and
X̄ = arithmetic mean of the set of observations.
12.9.2 Secant Modulus— The secant modulus is the ratio of
stress to corresponding strain at any selected point on the 13. Report
stress-strain curve, that is, the slope of the straight line that
joins the origin and a selected point on the actual stress-strain 13.1 Report the following information:
curve. It shall be expressed in megapascals (pounds per square 13.1.1 Complete identification of the material tested, includ-
inch). The selected point is chosen at a prespecified stress or ing type, source, manufacturer’s code number, form, principal
strain in accordance with the appropriate material specification dimensions, and previous history (for laminated materials,
or by customer contract. It is calculated in accordance with Eq ply-stacking sequence shall be reported),
6 by letting m equal the slope of the secant to the load- 13.1.2 Direction of cutting and loading specimens, when
deflection curve. The chosen stress or strain point used for the appropriate,
determination of the secant shall be reported. 13.1.3 Conditioning procedure,
12.9.3 Chord Modulus (Ef)—The chord modulus may be 13.1.4 Depth and width of specimen,
calculated from two discrete points on the load deflection 13.1.5 Procedure used (A or B),
curve. The selected points are to be chosen at two prespecified 13.1.6 Support span length,
stress or strain points in accordance with the appropriate 13.1.7 Support span-to-depth ratio if different than 16:1,
material specification or by customer contract. The chosen 13.1.8 Radius of supports and loading noses, if different
stress or strain points used for the determination of the chord than 5 mm. When support and/or loading nose radii other than
modulus shall be reported. Calculate the chord modulus, Ef 5 mm are used, the results shall be identified as being generated
using the following equation: by a modified version of this test method and the referring
specification referenced as to the geometry used.
Ef 5 ~sf2 2 sf1!/~´f2 2 ´f1! (7)
13.1.9 Rate of crosshead motion,
where: 13.1.10 Flexural strain at any given stress, average value
sf2 and sf1 are the flexural stresses, calculated from Eq 3 or and standard deviation,
Eq 4 and measured at the predefined points on the load 13.1.11 If a specimen is rejected, reason(s) for rejection,
deflection curve, and ´ f2 and 13.1.12 Tangent, secant, or chord modulus in bending,
´f1 are the flexural strain values, calculated from Eq 5 and average value, standard deviation, and the strain level(s) used
measured at the predetermined points on the load deflection if secant or chord modulus,
curve. 13.1.13 Flexural strength (if desired), average value, and

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standard deviation,
TABLE 2 Flexural Modulus
13.1.14 Stress at any given strain up to and including 5 % (if
Values Expressed in units of %
of 103 psi
desired), with strain used, average value, and standard devia-
Material Mean, 103 psi
tion,
V rA V RB rC RD
13.1.15 Flexural stress at break (if desired), average value,
ABS 338 4.79 7.69 13.6 21.8
DAP thermoset 485 2.89 7.18 8.15 20.4
and standard deviation,
Cast acrylic 810 13.7 16.1 38.8 45.4 13.1.16 Type of behavior, whether yielding or rupture, or
GR polyester 816 3.49 4.20 9.91 11.9 both, or other observations, occurring within the 5 % strain
GR polycarbonate 1790 5.52 5.52 15.6 15.6
SMC 1950 10.9 13.8 30.8 39.1
limit, and
A
Vr = within-laboratory coefficient of variation for the indicated material. It is
13.1.17 Date of specific version of test used.
obtained by first pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the test
results from all of the participating laboratories: Sr = [[(s1)2 + ( s2)2 . . . + (sn)2]/n] 14. Precision and Bias
1/2 then Vr = (Sr divided by the overall average for the material) 3 100.
B
Vr = between-laboratory reproducibility, expressed as the coefficient of varia- 14.1 Tables 1 and 2 are based on a round-robin test
tion: SR = {Sr2 + SL2}1/2 where SL is the standard deviation of laboratory means. conducted in 1984, in accordance with Practice E691, involv-
Then: VR = (SR divided by the overall average for the material) 3 100.
C
r = within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 Vr. ing six materials tested by six laboratories using Procedure A.
D
R = between-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 VR. For each material, all the specimens were prepared at one

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 D790 – 10
source. Each “test result” was the average of five individual than the r value for that material. r is the interval representing
determinations. Each laboratory obtained two test results for the critical difference between two test results for the same
each material. material, obtained by the same operator using the same
NOTE 16—Caution: The following explanations of r and R (14.2-
equipment on the same day in the same laboratory.
14.2.3) are intended only to present a meaningful way of considering the 14.2.2 Reproducibility— Two test results obtained by dif-
approximate precision of these test methods. The data given in Tables 2 ferent laboratories shall be judged not equivalent if they differ
and 3 should not be applied rigorously to the acceptance or rejection of by more than the R value for that material. R is the interval
materials, as those data are specific to the round robin and may not be representing the critical difference between two test results for
representative of other lots, conditions, materials, or laboratories. Users of the same material, obtained by different operators using differ-
these test methods should apply the principles outlined in Practice E691 to
ent equipment in different laboratories.
generate data specific to their laboratory and materials, or between specific
laboratories. The principles of 14.2-14.2.3 would then be valid for such 14.2.3 The judgments in 14.2.1 and 14.2.2 will have an
data. approximately 95 % (0.95) probability of being correct.
14.2 Concept of “r” and “R” in Tables 1 and 2—If Sr and 14.3 Bias—No statement may be made about the bias of
SR have been calculated from a large enough body of data, and these test methods, as there is no standard reference material or
for test results that were averages from testing five specimens reference test method that is applicable.
for each test result, then:
14.2.1 Repeatability— Two test results obtained within one 15. Keywords
laboratory shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by more 15.1 flexural properties; plastics; stiffness; strength

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. TOE COMPENSATION

A1.1 In a typical stress-strain curve (see Fig. A1.1) there is alignment or seating of the specimen. In order to obtain correct
a toe region, AC, that does not represent a property of the values of such parameters as modulus, strain, and offset yield
--`,,,``,```,,`,```,,,,,,```,`,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

material. It is an artifact caused by a takeup of slack and point, this artifact must be compensated for to give the
corrected zero point on the strain or extension axis.

A1.2 In the case of a material exhibiting a region of

Hookean (linear) behavior (see Fig. A1.1), a continuation of
the linear (CD) region of the curve is constructed through the
zero-stress axis. This intersection (B) is the corrected zero-
strain point from which all extensions or strains must be
measured, including the yield offset (BE), if applicable. The
elastic modulus can be determined by dividing the stress at any
point along the Line CD (or its extension) by the strain at the
same point (measured from Point B, defined as zero-strain).

A1.3 In the case of a material that does not exhibit any

linear region (see Fig. A1.2), the same kind of toe correction of
the zero-strain point can be made by constructing a tangent to
the maximum slope at the inflection Point H8. This is extended
to intersect the strain axis at Point B8, the corrected zero-strain
point. Using Point B8 as zero strain, the stress at any point (G8)
on the curve can be divided by the strain at that point to obtain
a secant modulus (slope of Line B8 G8). For those materials
with no linear region, any attempt to use the tangent through
NOTE—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph. the inflection point as a basis for determination of an offset
FIG. A1.1 Material with Hookean Region yield point may result in unacceptable error.

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NOTE—Some chart recorders plot the mirror image of this graph.

FIG. A1.2 Material with No Hookean Region

A2. MEASURING AND SETTING SPAN

A2.1 For flexural fixtures that have adjustable spans, it is

important that the span between the supports is maintained
constant or the actual measured span is used in the calculation
of stress, modulus, and strain, and the loading nose or noses are
positioned and aligned properly with respect to the supports. FIG. A2.1 Markings on Fixed Specimen Supports
Some simple steps as follows can improve the repeatability of
your results when using these adjustable span fixtures.
A2.2 Measurement of Span:
A2.2.1 This technique is needed to ensure that the correct FIG. A2.2 Markings on Rotatable Specimen Supports
span, not an estimated span, is used in the calculation of
results.
A2.2.2 Scribe a permanent line or mark at the exact center
of the support where the specimen makes complete contact. A2.3 Setting the Span and Alignment of Loading
The type of mark depends on whether the supports are fixed or Nose(s)—To ensure a consistent day-to-day setup of the span
rotatable (see Figs. A2.1 and A2.2). and ensure the alignment and proper positioning of the loading
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A2.2.3 Using a vernier caliper with pointed tips that is nose, simple jigs should be manufactured for each of the
readable to at least 0.1 mm (0.004 in.), measure the distance standard setups used. An example of a jig found to be useful is
between the supports, and use this measurement of span in the shown in Fig. A2.3.
calculations.

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FIG. A2.3 Fixture Used to Set Loading Nose and Support Spacing and Alignment

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. DEVELOPMENT OF A FLEXURAL MACHINE COMPLIANCE CORRECTION

X1.1 Introduction X1.3.5 Steel bar, with smoothed surfaces and a calculated
X1.1.1 Universal Testing instrument drive systems always flexural stiffness of more than 100 times greater than the test
exhibit a certain level of compliance that is characterized by a material. The length should be at least 13 mm greater than the
variance between the reported crosshead displacement and the support span. The width shall match the width of the test
displacement actually imparted to the specimen. This variance specimen and the thickness shall be that required to achieve or
is a function of load frame stiffness, drive system wind-up, load exceed the target stiffness.
cell compliance and fixture compliance. To accurately measure
the flexural modulus of a material, this compliance should be X1.4 Safety Precautions
measured and empirically subtracted from test data. Flexural X1.4.1 The universal testing machine should stop the ma-
modulus results without the corrections are lower than if the chine crosshead movement when the load reaches 90 % of load
correction is applied. The greater the stiffness of the material cell capacity, to prevent damage to the load cell.
the more influence the system compliance has on results. X1.4.2 The compliance curve determination should be
X1.1.2 It is not necessary to make the machine compliance made at a speed no higher than 2 mm/min. Because the load
correction when a deflectometer/extensometer is used to mea- builds up rapidly since the steel bar does not deflect, it is quite
sure the actual deflection occurring in the specimen as it is easy to exceed the load cell capacity.
deflected.
X1.5 Procedure
X1.2 Terminology
NOTE X1.1—A new compliance correction curve should be established
X1.2.1 Compliance—The displacement difference between
each time there is a change made to the setup of the test machine, such as,
test machine drive system displacement values and actual load cell changed or reinstallation of the flexure fixture on the machine. If
specimen displacement the test machine is dedicated to flexural testing, and there are no changes
X1.2.2 Compliance Correction—An analytical method of to the setup, it is not necessary to re-calculate the compliance curve.
modifying test instrument displacement values to eliminate the NOTE X1.2—On those machines with computer software that automati-
amount of that measurement attributed to test instrument cally make this compliance correction; refer to the software manual to
compliance. determine how this correction should be made.
X1.5.1 The procedure to determine compliance follows:
X1.3 Apparatus X1.5.1.1 Configure the test system to match the actual test
X1.3.1 Universal Testing machine configuration.
X1.3.2 Load cell X1.5.1.2 Place the steel bar in the test fixture, duplicating
X1.3.3 Flexure fixture including loading nose and specimen the position of a specimen during actual testing.
supports X1.5.1.3 Set the crosshead speed to 2 mm/min. or less and
X1.3.4 Computer Software to make corrections to the dis- start the crosshead moving in the test direction recording
placements crosshead displacement and the corresponding load values.
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X1.5.1.4 Increase load to a point exceeding the highest load bar. From these two points on the load deflection curve draw
expected during specimen testing. Stop the crosshead and two vertical lines downwards to the displacement axis. These
return to the pre-test location. two points on the displacement axis determine the corrections
X1.5.1.5 The recorded load-deflection curve, starting when (c1, c2) that need to be made to the displacements measure-
the loading nose contacts the steel bar to the time that the ments for the test material.
highest load expected is defined as test system compliance. X1.5.2.4 Subtract the corrections (c1, c2) from the mea-
X1.5.2 Procedure to apply compliance correction is as sured displacements (D1, D2), so that a true measures of test
follows: specimen deflection (D1-c1, D2-c2) are obtained.
X1.5.2.1 Run the flexural test method on the material at the
X1.6 Calculations
crosshead required for the measurement.
X1.5.2.2 It is preferable that computer software be used to X1.6.1 Calculation of Chord Modulus
make the displacement corrections, but if it is not available X1.6.1.1 Calculate the stresses (sf1, sf2) for load points L1
compliance corrections can be made manually in the following and L2 from Fig. X1.1 using the equation in 12.2 3.
manner. Determine the range of displacement (D) on the load X1.6.1.2 Calculate the strains (´f1, ´f2) for displacements
versus displacement curve for the material, over which the D1-c1 and D2-c2 from Fig. X1.3 using the equation in 12.8 Eq.
modulus is to be calculated. For Young’s Modulus that would 5.
steepest region of the curve below the proportional limit. For X1.6.1.3 Calculate the flexural chord modulus in accor-
Secant and Chord Modulii that would be at specified level of dance with 12.9.3 Eq. 7.
strain or specified levels of strain, respectively. Draw two X1.6.2 Calculation of Secant Modulus
vertical lines up from the displacement axis for the two chosen X1.6.2.1 Calculation of the Secant Modulus at any strain
displacements (D1, D2) to the load versus displacement curve along the curve would be the same as conducting a chord
for the material. In some cases one of these points maybe at modulus measurement, except that sf1 = 0, L1= 0, and D1-c1
zero displacement after the toe compensation correction is = 0.
made. Draw two horizontal lines from these points on the load X1.6.3 Calculation of Young’s Modulus
displacement curve to the Load (P) axis. Determine the loads X1.6.3.1 Determine the steepest slope “m” along the curve,
(L1, L2). below the proportional limit, using the selected loads L1 and
X1.5.2.3 Using the Compliance Correction load displace- L2 from Fig. X1.1 and the displacements D1-c1 and D2-c2
ment curve for the steel bar, mark off L1 and L2 on the Load from Fig. X1.3.
(P) axis. From these two points draw horizontal lines across till X1.6.3.2 Calculate the Young’s modulus in accordance with
they contact the load versus displacement curve for the steel 12.9.1 Eq. 6.

FIG. X1.1 Example of Modulus Curve for a Material FIG. X1.2 Compliance Curve for Steel Bar

--`,,,``,```,,`,```,,,,,,```,`,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

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 D790 – 10

FIG. X1.3 Example of the Material Curve Corrected for the

Compliance Corrected Displacement or Strain

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D790 - 07´1) that may impact the use of this standard. (April 1, 2010)

(1) Revised Section 9.

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--`,,,``,```,,`,```,,,,,,```,`,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

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