ASTM D882 Comparison

Tensile Properties of Plastic Sheeting

The force required to break a one inch (2.5 cm.) sample of the membrane when pulled in opposite directions.

This test is similar to the Grab Method except that the test specimen is only one inch (2.5 cm.) wide. The results are reported in pounds per square inch (Kilograms per square centimeter).

*All results have been reported in the machine direction (MD) of the fabric, at fabric break.

Test Results

Fibertite®	36 mil	9111 PSI (641 kgf/cm2)
NBP	50 mil	6560 PSI (461 kgf/cm2)
PVC #1	45 mil	6272 PSI (441 kgf/cm2)
TPO #2	45 mil	4064 PSI (286 kgf/cm2)
CPA	40 mil	3931 PSI (276 kgf/cm2)
TPO #1	45 mil	3774 PSI (265 kgf/cm2)
PVC #2	48 mil	3752 PSI (264 kgf/cm2)
PVC #3	50 mil	3682 PSI (259 kgf/cm2)
PVC #4	48 mil	2859 PSI (201 kgf/cm2)

The physical property relates to the ability of a membrane to withstand stresses that might be imposed by building movement, wind uplift and thermal stress. The presence of reinforcing material and the type of material used as reinforcement will greatly affect tensile strength.

A good balance of high tensile and elongation is required to prevent a membrane from rupturing under stress.

Test Results according to ASTM Standards as Performed and Reported by Structural Research, Inc.