5.1?This test method determines the flexural properties (including strength, stiffness, and load/deflection behavior) of polymer matrix composite materials under the conditions defined. Procedure A is used for three-point loading and Procedure B is used for four-point loading. This test method was developed for optimum use with continuous-fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites and differs in several respects from other flexure methods, including the use of a standard span-to-thickness ratio of 32:1 versus the 16:1 ratio used by Test Methods D790 (a plastics-focused method covering three-point flexure) and D6272 (a plastics-focused method covering four-point flexure).

5.2?This test method is intended to interrogate long-beam strength in contrast to the short-beam strength evaluated by Test Method D2344/D2344M.

5.3?Flexural properties determined by these procedures can be used for quality control and specification purposes, and may find design applications.

5.4?These procedures can be useful in the evaluation of multiple environmental conditions to determine which are design drivers and may require further testing.

5.5?These procedures may also be used to determine flexural properties of structures.

1.1?This test method determines the flexural stiffness and strength properties of polymer matrix composites.

1.2?For comparison purposes, tests may be conducted according to either test procedure, provided that the same procedure is used for all tests, since the two procedures generally give slightly different property values.

1.3?UnitsThe values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5?This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.