ASTM D3826-98(2002)

1.1 This practice covers the determination of a degradation-end point ( a brittle point ) for degradable polyethylene/ polypropylene films and sheeting less than 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) thick. This practice is not intended for determination of the rate of degree of degradation of a polyethylene/ polypropylene film or sheet, but rather, to assess when in the course of its degradation under some condition, a brittle point is reached. If one wishes to monitor tensile elongation during the degradation process (such as when the tensile elongation is significantly greater than 5%), Test Method D882 is recommended. This practice should not be considered the only way of determining a degradation-end point. Other degradation-end-point procedures are currently being evaluated and developed by Subcommittee D20.96 for polyolefins and other plastics such as polystyrene. For example, Test Method D1922 is being considered as a test for determining a degradation-end point in polyethylene/ polypropylene films. Practice D1435 may be used for determining outdoor weathering of polyethylene/ polypropylene films and sheeting.

1.2 Tensile properties of plastics 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) or greater in thickness shall be determined in accordance with Test Method D638.

1.3 Use a static weighing-constant rate of grip separation test. This procedure employs a constant rate of separation of the grips holding the sample and a static load cell.

1.4 This procedure has been successful for determining the degradation end point of ethylene-carbon-monoxide copolymers, but its utility for other polymers is yet to be determined by round-robin testing.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.