Tensile testing of microtomed sections from molded parts

This paper describes a method to accurately measure the tensile properties of microtomed sections from molded parts. This technique has great utility in determining physical property changes from skin to core for a moldedpart. It can also be used to assess potential process-induced degradation. Microtomed sections are too thin for contact extensometer use. In this study, accurate modulus and strain measurements are obtained with the use of a non-contact video extensometer. This paper details the test methodology to accurately measure the tensile properties of microtomed sections from molded parts. It also compares tensile test results from microtomed sections to bulk sample results.