Modulus of elasticity is a common parameter in materials testing. Modulus of elasticity is a mathematical measurement of elastic properties. It is defined as the change in stress divided by the change in strain over the linear elastic region of the material’s stress-strain curve.
Measuring the Modulus of Elasticity When Testing Plastics Modulus of elasticity is possibly the most important tensile measurement when analyzing materials. Many do not consider this parameter when testing plastics due to their little or no elastic stress-strain behavior. Many strain or elongate significantly before failing. Therefore, materials scientists and design engineers need to work with modulus information in the plastic region of many plastics. This measurement method is called the secant modulus.

It’s simple. The secant modulus is an alternate equation to measure elasticity. It is the stress divided by strain at a specific point on the stress-strain curve. Commonly, it is referred to as “modulus at 100% elongation” or the “modulus at 500% elongation.” Our tensile test machines and software can calculate both modulus of elasticity and secant modulus. Give one of our experienced engineers a call today for help with tensile testing your plastic product.