What is Compressive Strength of Plastics | The Complete Guide

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compressive strength in plastics

What is Compressive Strength In Plastics?

Plastic compressive strength refers to the ability of plastic material to withstand compressive forces before it deforms or breaks. It is measured in units of stress (such as pounds per square inch) and depends on the type and quality of the plastic.

That is contrary to tensile strength resisting loads leading to elongation. Compressive strength and tensile strength can be calculated separately. In a nutshell, compressive strength in plastics is all about materials being pushed together, and tensile strength is about materials being pulled apart.

ASTM D65 is the standard test for analyzing compressive strength in the United States. Some materials start to deform once the compressive strength yield point is exceeded (Some materials fracture at their limit). However, when a certain stress limit is exceeded, clasping occurs to prevent breakage, but that can cause a hurried and inconsistent change in the material’s compressive strength.

The clasping is peculiar to the compression test and is highly influenced by the elastic modulus of the material and the strain of the sample. Overstressing, which leads to fracturing of the sample, is called Ultimate compressive strength.

Compressive strength (MPa) is often analyzed on a Universal Testing Machine, and the measurement can also vary depending on the environment and specific testing methods.

The Testing Method 

compressive strength testing method

When a sample is placed on a machine in such a way it extends, it is said to be tension, and if the sample is shortened and compressed, it is said to be compressed.

On an atomic level, the atoms, when in compression mode, are forced together. The atoms in a solid state are always in the run for finding an equilibrium position and distance between other atoms; raised forces within the sample counter both tension and compression. That makes the phenomenon occurring at the atomic level similar to each other.

As mentioned earlier, plastic compressive strength will shorten the sample with a negative strain. Over-compression can amplify the sample leading to clasping or buckling.

Interesting Read – Physical Properties of Plastic Materials | The Complete Guide

Let’s see a table with compressive yield strength and compressive modulus of all the mainstream plastic materials.

Materials Compressive Yield Strength (MPa)
Compressive Modulus (GPa)
ABS 65 2.5
Acetal Copolymer 85 2.2
Acrylic 95 3
Nylon 6 55 2.3
Polycarbonate 70 2
Polyethylene 20 0.7
HDPE 20 0.7
PET 80 1
Polypropylene 40 1.5
Polystyrene 70 2.5

Difference Between Compressive Strength and Compressive Modulus 

The basic difference between them can be attributed to the compression yield strength, a unit for measuring a material’s stress. On the other hand, compressive modulus represents both stress and strain.

Compressive strength is a measure of the maximum stress a material can withstand under compressive loading before it fails or fractures. It is typically reported as a stress value (such as pounds per square inch or megapascals) and is determined through experimental testing. Compressive strength is an important property for polymers that are subjected to high compressive loads, such as in construction and engineering applications.

On the contrary, Compressive modulus denotes the stiffness of a plastic material when subjected to compressive loading. It corresponds to the gradient of the stress-strain curve within the linear elastic range and is commonly expressed in units of stress divided by strain (for instance, pounds per square inch per inch or megapascals per percent). Compressive modulus is particularly relevant for materials that undergo compressive loads without breaking down.

Engaging Read – Mechanical Properties of Plastic Materials | The Definitive Guide

FAQs 

Below are the frequently asked questions on HDPE compressive strength and compressive strength of plastic. Let’s dig deep to know more.

What is the difference between flexural strength and bending strength?

The type of material being tested usually classifies the difference. A flexure test is conducted to test the bending strength of brittle material. On the other hand, a bend test is designed to measure the crack resistance of a ductile material.

How do you calculate bending strength?

We have to do some math – Let’s take F as a force applied, L as the length of the sample, W as the width of the sample, and D as the depth of the sample. To get the bending strength, multiply the force by the length of the sample and then multiply it by 3.

What is Modulus Strength?

Modulus strength means a force of a specific elongation value. It is expressed by units MPa and psi.

What is the difference between flexural strength and compressive strength?

Tensile strength means the ability of materials to withstand bending, and flexural strength is the ability to resist rupture. The simplest way to find a material’s flexural strength is by raising its compressive strength to 2/3 power and multiplying it by 2.3.

How crucial is Young’s Modulus?

Young’s Modulus is one of the most important factors when using a material for any application. It can determine the behavior of a material when subjected to force. Whatever we see around us, such as buildings, flyovers, roads, and any other structure, are built around the same concept of force.

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Final Thoughts 

To sum up, the compressive strength of plastic is a critical property for evaluating its capacity to endure compressive forces and is a key factor to consider in applications involving such loads, including construction, engineering, and packaging. The compressive strength of a plastic material is determined by various aspects, such as its molecular structure, additives, and processing conditions.

Selecting the appropriate plastic with adequate compressive strength is essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of the end product. With continuous research and development in the plastic materials industry, the compressive strength of plastics is being enhanced, creating new opportunities for a diverse range of applications.

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