ASTM D1822 Tensile Impact Test for Plastics

The Tensile impact energy of plastics or electrical insulating materials is determined by Standard Method ASTM D1822. Specimens are subjected to high-speed tensile load using a swinging pendulum and anvil apparatus. The rupture energy is expressed in kilojoules (kJ) or kJ/m2 .

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

Overview

ASTM D1822 is a standard test method for the tensile impact energy of plastic and electrical insulating materials when subjected to sudden tensile loading. The test method assesses the resistance of materials to sudden tensile forces that might be experienced during an impact test.

The test is performed by subjecting a specimen to high-speed tensile force using a pendulum-and-anvil system. When the anvil suddenly stops the pendulum, the specimen is subjected to a tensile impulse, which causes it to fail.

Scope, Applications, and Benefits

Scope

ASTM D1822 is employed to determine the tensile impact strength of rigid and flexible plastics and electrical insulating materials. The test procedure provides information on the material’s properties under sudden tensile loading.

ASTM D1822 evaluates:

Tensile impact strength under high-speed loading
Energy required to rupture plastic specimens
Impact resistance of rigid and flexible plastics
Response of materials to sudden tensile forces
Suitability of plastics for impact-prone applications

Applications

Plastic pipes and fittings
Electrical insulation for cables and wires
Packaging materials
Building and construction components
Transportation and automotive parts
Consumer and industrial plastic products

Benefits

Provides standardized tensile impact energy values
Assists in material selection for impact-resistant applications
Enables comparison between plastic materials
Supports product design and performance evaluation
Improves understanding of brittle and ductile behaviour

Test Process

Specimen Preparation & Setup

Dumbbell-shaped specimens are prepared and classified as Type S (short) or Type L (long).

Pendulum Acceleration

The specimen is clamped into the swinging pendulum and accelerated toward the anvil.

Tensile Impact Loading

Sudden stopping of the pendulum generates tensile stress, leading to specimen rupture.

Data Recording & Verification

Rupture energy is measured and recorded for each specimen.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Applicable Materials	Rigid and flexible plastics, electrical insulating materials
Specimen Types	Type S (short) and Type L (long)
Specimen Length	63.5 mm
Gauge Length	9.53 mm for Type L specimens
Test Environment	Ambient or specified temperature
Measured Outputs	Tensile impact rupture energy

Instrumentation Used for Testing

Tensile impact testing machine
Swinging a pendulum with a hammer
Anvil and yoke assembly
Specimen clamping fixtures
Energy measurement system
Calibration and verification equipment

Results and Deliverables

Tensile impact rupture energy values
Energy per unit area results
Comparison between Type S and Type L specimens
Failure behaviour observations
Compliance report

Why Choose Infinita Lab for D1822?

Infinita Lab is a trusted USA-based testing laboratory offering D1822 testing services across an extensive network of accredited facilities across the USA.Infinita Lab is built to serve the full spectrum of modern testing needs—across industries, materials, and methodologies. Our advanced equipment and expert professionals deliver highly accurate and prompt test results, helping businesses achieve quality compliance and product reliability.

Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

The ASTM D1822 test determines the impact energy necessary to fracture a plastic specimen with a high-speed pendulum, as the material properties are not suited for Izod or Charpy impact tests.

Plastics behave in different manners when subjected to rapid loading compared to slow loading. ASTM D1822 addresses rate-sensitive behavior by specifying brittleness or toughness in sudden impacts that cannot be well-represented in tensile tests.

ASTM D1822 is widely used in the automotive, safety products, consumer electronics, and packaging sectors, where plastic components must withstand sudden impacts or accidental drops without cracking, splintering, or failing.

ASTM D1822 calls for small dog-bone specimens that are either Type S or Type L specimens. These specimens can be removed from molded plaques or finished parts as long as they meet the requirements of the standard.

ASTM D1822 is appropriate for a thin or flexible plastic material that cannot be notched. This test is applicable when the traditional Izod or Charpy test is not feasible.