An overview of mechanical and physical testing of composite materials

Anisotropic and inhomogeneous composite materials and components require a range of mechanical and physical testing, under a range of environmental conditions. A variety of standardized mechanical tests on composite materials including high-force tension (tensile), compression, impact, flexural, shear, rheology, and fatigue are known. Interestingly, the physical testing includes density, void content, water absorption, hardness, and scratch resistance. Mechanical testing instruments are often configured with a range of fixtures that have been developed to provide various ways of testing composite materials depending on the type of material and its intended function. Most fixtures are designed to meet specific materials testing standards. Currently, polymer and polymer composite tests have been standardized by a number of organizations by leading manufacturers and research institutions. The prime international composite testing standards are those maintained by ASTM, ISO, CEN (European Committee for Standardization), and other standards. This compilation highlights the outstanding outline associated with the principles and experiments of mechanical and physical testing for both research and advanced technical applications of polymers and polymer composites.