The above photo shows a dumbbell stretched to approx. 200% elongation during a uniaxial tensile test. Typically the test continues until the specimen fails. The test data is converted to Stress vs. Strain, and the UTS and elongation at break are recorded.

The uniaxial compression test involves a moulded test specimen (approx. Ø 25 x 18mm high) pressed between two platens as shown above. The platen surfaces are lubricated to allow free rubber flow across the steel during compression in an attempt to achieve uniform states of strain.

Stress vs. Strain data is recorded and used as part of the rubber properties analysis.

Although this test appears to be a type of tensile test, it is really a measure of the rubber properties in a state of pure shear. Pure shear occurs at a 45 degree angle to the direction of stretch when all thinning occurs in the thickness direction only. This is achieved by finding the correct ratio dimensionally of the test specimen

The Quad Lap Shear Test is achieved as above. The moulded test piece is pulled in tension to approximately 45° shear strain. Load and deflection readings are recorded and converted to Shear Stress vs. Shear Strain.

This test involves eight rubber discs stacked on top of each other and compressed in a cylinder/piston arrangement. Silicone spray is used to lubricate the piston/cylinder and stack arrangement.

Although natural rubber can be considered incompressible for most applications, finite element analysis requires more accurate rubber property analysis. Volumetric compression tests determine the compressibility of the rubber and the behaviour under compression in all directions.