ASTM D6108 Compressive Properties of Plastic Lumber and Shapes

ASTM D6108 test method determines details about the plastic lumber and shapes by determining their compressive properties such as strain, stress, yield point, strength, displacement, deformation, stress-strain diagram, and modulus of elasticity. This method is particularly used for recycled plastics. The final results of this test method are expressed in inch-pound units.

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ASTM D6108 Compressive Properties of Plastic Lumber and Shapes

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Overview
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Test Process
Specifications
Instrumentation
Results and Deliverables

Overview

ASTM D6108 provides a test method for determining the compressive properties of plastic lumber and related structural shapes. These materials are commonly used as alternatives to wood in construction and outdoor applications.

The standard evaluates how plastic lumber behaves under compressive loads, a critical factor for structural performance and design.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits

Scope

ASTM D6108 focuses on measuring the compressive strength and deformation behavior of plastic lumber and shapes under load. It ensures materials can withstand structural stresses in service conditions.

The test evaluates:

Compressive strength
Stress-strain behavior
Deformation under load
Load-bearing capacity
Structural performance of plastic lumber

Applications

Decking and outdoor structures
Structural supports and beams
Fencing and landscaping materials
Marine and waterfront applications
Construction and building materials
Recycled plastic lumber products

Benefits

Ensures structural reliability
Supports material selection and design
Improves safety in load-bearing applications
Enables comparison of materials
Supports quality control in manufacturing

Test Process

Sample Preparation

Plastic lumber specimens are cut to standard dimensions.

Load Application

Compressive load is applied using a testing machine.

Deformation Measurement

Strain and deformation are recorded during loading.

Data Recording & Evaluation

Compressive properties are calculated and analyzed.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Applicable Materials	Plastic lumber and structural shapes
Test Method	Compression testing using UTM
Specimen Length	Typically 50 mm to 200 mm
Loading Rate	Approximately 1.3 mm/min ± 0.3 mm/min
Test Temperature	Approximately 23°C ± 2°C
Measured Outputs	Compressive strength (MPa), modulus, strain

Instrumentation Used for Testing

Universal testing machine
Compression platens
Extensometer or strain measurement device
Dimensional measurement tools
Environmental conditioning chamber
Data acquisition system

Results and Deliverables

Compressive strength values
Stress-strain curve
Modulus of elasticity
Deformation characteristics
Test condition summary
ASTM compliance report

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D6108 is a standard test method used to determine the compressive properties of plastic lumber and shapes, evaluating their behavior under compressive loads for structural and load-bearing applications.

ASTM D6108 helps assess strength and deformation characteristics of plastic lumber, ensuring reliability, safety, and suitability for construction, decking, and structural applications where compressive forces are present.

ASTM D6108 involves applying a controlled compressive load to a specimen until deformation or failure occurs, measuring stress-strain behavior and determining compressive strength and modulus.

The test requires a universal testing machine, compression platens, and measurement devices to record load and deformation accurately during the test.

Results are reported as compressive strength, modulus, and deformation characteristics, providing insight into material performance under load and aiding in design and material selection.