Full definition
Standard Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers — Tension — the primary standard for determining tensile properties of rubber: tensile strength at break (MPa), elongation at break (%), and stress at specified elongation (modulus at 100%, 200%, 300%). Specimens: die-cut dumbbell (Die C most common) or ring. Pull rate: 500 mm/min (±50) standard. Test conditions: 23±2°C, 50±5% RH. The tensile test is the second most common rubber test after hardness, providing fundamental data on compound strength and flexibility. Results directly correlate with compound formulation: higher filler loading increases modulus but may reduce elongation; higher cross-link density increases modulus and tensile but reduces elongation. Minimum 3 specimens tested and median reported per ASTM D412. Aging studies (ASTM D573) report tensile and elongation retention as percentage of original values — common specification: retain ≥70% tensile and ≥50% elongation after aging. Per ASTM D412-16. Equivalent: ISO 37. These properties are reported on virtually every rubber compound data sheet and are primary acceptance criteria in purchase specifications.