An assessment of essential work of fracture testing method applied to medium density polyethylene (MDPE)

What is it about?

Plastics are being used increasingly in our world, and now many important parts made of plastics require durability and structural integrity. It is important, then, to characterize the mechanical properties, in particular fracture toughness. The present work investigates one of these fracture toughness tests, the Essential Work of Fracture test (EWF). We applied it to Medium Density Polyethylene, one of the principal resins in our world and we show applicability and limitations of the method.

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Why is it important?

In the past the usual approach concerning a plastic part which failed was to substitute it. With increasing importance, however, these parts gained structural responsibility and a fracture in service is no longer acceptable. One example s in water distribution systems. Today the residential branch of such systems s made by polyethylene pipes. A failure in service represent leakage, hence water loss and maintenance costs, hence fracture resistance should be accessed.

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