ASTM D3039 and D638 are two different standards developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) relating to the testing of fiberglass composites. Here are the main differences between these two standards:
Purpose:ASTM D3039: This standard is specifically designed for testing the tensile properties of polymer matrix composite materials reinforced with continuous fiber strands. ASTM D638: This standard is more general and applies to the testing of the tensile properties of plastics, including fiberglass-reinforced plastics.
Material Types:ASTM D3039: It focuses on the testing of fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites, which can include fiberglass as one of the reinforcement materials. ASTM D638: It covers a broader range of plastic materials, including thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, which may or may not involve fiberglass reinforcement.
Test Method:ASTM D3039: This standard outlines the procedure for conducting a standard tensile test on a specific type of composite specimen, featuring a standardized geometry (rectangular shape with specific dimensions). ASTM D638: It provides a more general guideline for conducting tensile tests on various plastic materials, including fiberglass-reinforced plastics. The standard allows for different specimen geometries based on the material type and properties being evaluated.
Results and Reporting:ASTM D3039: The standard provides specific guidelines for measuring and reporting properties such as ultimate tensile strength, elastic modulus, strain, and failure modes of the tested composites. ASTM D638: Similar to D3039, this standard specifies methods for determining tensile properties, including yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, elongation, and modulus of elasticity. The reporting requirements may vary depending on the specific material being tested.
In summary, ASTM D3039 is a specific standard for testing fiber-reinforced polymer composites, while ASTM D638 is a more general standard applicable to a wider range of plastic materials, including fiberglass-reinforced plastics. The test methods, specimen geometries, and reporting requirements differ between the two standards.