Elastomeric fabrics testing

Testing for elastomeric fabrics is not similar to that used for rigid fabrics because the slight tension variation of elastomeric yams affects the final fabric properties. Normally, an ahysteresis curve is produced when a force is applied to an elastomeric fabric... 

Elastic stretch and recovery of elastomeric fabric is tested using ASTM D 4964-96 (2012) method. Fabric slippage will be more for elastic fabrics, which will affect the end results. This can be controlled by using band clamps at both the edges. Kielty et al. (2002) recommended that the stretch properties are better tested by deformation of a sample clamped all around, as in a burst tester. 

Polyethylene and polystyrene are examples of plastics subject to environmental stress cracking. Crack resistance tests have shown that surfactants, alcohols, organic acids, vegetable and mineral oils, and ethers provide an active environment for stress cracking of polyethylene. Table 6 lists typical sterile devices and plastic materials used to fabricate them, while Tables 7-9 list the potential effects of sterilization processes on polymeric materials. The effect of gamma irradiation on elastomeric closures has been studied by the Parenteral Drug Association [15]. 

Another suitable method for evaluating elastomeric finishes is ASTM D 4964-96 Standard Test Method for Tension and Elongation of Elastic Fabrics (Constant-Rate-of-Extension Type Tensile Testing Machine) . Fabric samples are formed into loops and are placed through several extension-recovery cycles under controlled conditions. Table 12.2 shows an overview of test methods for elastomeric finishes. 

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