Composite Sandwich Panel Test Methods

Sandwich panel composites are made of two thin, stiff face sheets bonded to a relatively thick, lightweight core. To understand the durability and performance of a sandwich panel, the entire construct must be tested together.  

Composite sandwich materials have stiff skin around the core which provides superior bending properties with lower weight. The constructs are commonly used in aircraft, satellites, marine and automotive applications, and wind turbines. 

ASTM Composite sandwich panel test methods

Element provides a variety of mechanical testing methods to evaluate the properties of composite sandwich structures, including flatwise tensile, core and plate shear, bending, and compression.

Out of plane/Flatwise tensile ASTM C297

Our experts perform out-of-plane or flatwise tensile according to ASTM C297. The test set up requires bonding the skins to loading blocks and pulling them apart perpendicular to the sandwich panel. The failure mode typically takes place in the core and sometimes in the adhesive. 

Core shear/Plate shear testing ASTM C273

Core shear or plate shear testing is a useful method for understanding the shear properties of the sandwich construct. When testing according to ASTM C273, the sample skins are bonded to the plates and loaded in opposite directions in the plane of the sandwich panel, creating a shear condition. The failure mode typically takes place in the core. In-plane shear may also be performed using a “picture frame” configuration. Element provides panel shear testing of composites for specimens of various sizes and to high loads. 

Bend testing sandwich materials ASTM C393

ASTM C393 outlines the process for bend testing sandwich materials. Different properties may be measured by changing the span of loading. For example, a shorter span of loading provides data for core shear properties and a longer span of loading provides data for skin properties.

Compression testing ASTM C364 and ASTM C365

Element performs compression testing both in-plane and out-of-plane. ASTM C364 provides guidance for in-plane or edgewise compression testing, and ASTM C365 covers out-of-plane or flatwise compression testing. Both compression methods help determine modulus data. 

To simulate in-service damage, composite sandwich panels undergo fatigue testing in either bend or compression to evaluate damage growth. In these cases, the materials may have impact damage, or flaw deliberately included during construction. 

Adhesive bond testing ASTM D1781

The adhesive bond used to connect the sandwich panel materials is evaluated in peel. Climbing drum peel, outlined in ASTM D1781, is a common quality control test for sandwich panel construction. Element is involved in the development of current methods for more analytical cantilever peel methods.

Composite testing at Element 

Our composite testing experts have a breadth of experience testing composite sandwich panels to a variety of test methods and specifications. We work diligently to ensure your materials and constructs are quality, compliant, and fit-for-purpose.

For more information about testing sandwich panel constructs or to request a quote, contact us today.