5.1 This test method simulates the hydrostatic loading conditions which are often present in actual sandwich structures, such as marine hulls. This test method can be used to compare the two-dimensional flexural stiffness of a sandwich composite made with different combinations of materials or with different fabrication processes. Since it is based on distributed loading rather than concentrated loading, it may also provide more realistic information on the failure mechanisms of sandwich structures loaded in a similar manner. Test data should be useful for design and engineering, material specification, quality assurance, and process development. In addition, data from this test method would be useful in refining predictive mathematical models or computer code for use as structural design tools. Properties that may be obtained from this test method include:

1.1 This test method determines the two-dimensional flexural properties of sandwich composite plates subjected to a distributed load. The test fixture uses a relatively large square panel sample which is simply supported all around and has the distributed load provided by a water-filled bladder. This type of loading differs from the procedure of Test Method C393, where concentrated loads induce one-dimensional, simple bending in beam specimens.

1.2 This test method is applicable to composite structures of the sandwich type which involve a relatively thick layer of core material bonded on both faces with an adhesive to thin-face sheets composed of a denser, higher-modulus material, typically, a polymer matrix reinforced with high-modulus fibers.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text the inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.