Philosophy of Selecting ASTM Standards for Mechanical Characterization of Polymers and Polymer Composites

Mechanical characterization of newly developed polymers and composites are the basic measurements that are used to check the potential of the material towards its usage in various applications. Young researchers who are new to the field of materials science often find it difficult in selecting the specific testing standards for their novel materials. This review article provides a detailed explanatory of the various ASTM standards that are used for analyzing the basic mechanical properties of polymer composite materials. The standard dimensions of the test specimens and the mechanical testing parameters that are universally followed in different testing phases are illustrated for the ease of research.