Applica tions Adhesives Biomedical Metals Important characteristics of adhesives, epoxies and materials that are bonded to one another can be measured using peel testing methods. Pressure- sensitive adhesive properties associated with materials such as labels, packaging products and medical wound management products, can be tested using a 180° testing method. Testing medical devices and materials used in the production of medical devices are critical to ensure compliance to federal regulations. From the testing of latex products,syringes,stents,catheters to packaging products for medical devices, L3 systems can be used to verify and validate material compliance. Metals and alloys are tested under varying conditions. Tensile, compressive, shear, flexural and fracturing properties are important characteristics of all metals and alloys. Modulus, brittleness versus ductility, strength at offset yields are used to characterize these products and their ability to satisfy application and life-cycle requirements. Building Materials Composites Plastics Materials used in building products, including asphalt and cement-based products can be tested to ascertain their strength and suitability under varying environmental conditions. Compressive and shear properties can be determined using L3 systems. Composites are made by combining two or more materials- often materials with very different properties. Composites based on polymers continue to evolve and find their way into all kinds of products for aerospace and automotive applications to medical applications. Understanding stress and strain characteristics are critical in evaluation composites and their applicability. The growth of plastics and polymers is exponential. Plastics are used everywhere in consumable materials to life-saving medical devices. Plastic properties are important in validating materials used in the development of products comprised of polymers. Tensile, compression, break/rupture/puncture and flexural testing are important characteristics in classifying plastics. Ceramics Textiles Rubber/Elastomers Ceramic and glass products are increasingly be used in a wide variety of products from cellular phones to fibre- optic cables. Because of their inherent brittleness, assessing their mechanical properties are important considerations, both in their design and application. Fabric, yarn, filaments, cords and cloth are tested for strength and durability. Both natural and synthetic textiles are tested for strength and adhesion, tear strength, seam slippage and break strength. Medical gloves, hoses used in automotive and aerospace products, foam, seals and building products are made from rubber and elastomer products. Compression strength, creep strength, puncture strength and tensile strength are important in assessing their suitability and manufacturability. 522 M a terial T esting / F orce M easurement