METHOD OF CRACK GROWTH TESTING FOR THIN SAMPLES

摘要

A method of determining the crack growth life of a thin, polymeric material is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a sample of the thin, polymeric material having a predetermined length, width and thickness. A groove is then formed in the sample followed by the formation of a crack in the groove. The sample is then secured in a test apparatus that cycles the sample in a bending mode at a predetermined frequency. The crack length is measured in the sample after a predetermined number of cycles. The crack growth data is collected over a period of cycles to determine the crack growth life in the sample.