In the PCL Physical Mechanical testing labs, we specialize in the physical and mechanical testing of aromatic specialty polymers and thermoplastic composites. Physical mechanical testing of polymers is a vital part of the product development and production process. Our capabilities span a wide spectrum, encompassing routine and standardized testing procedures as well as the evaluation of intricate components and specialized or non-routine testing. Our primary focus is to provide support to the Specialty Polymer Research and Development (R&D) teams, Customer Technical Development (CTD) teams, as well as the manufacturing and quality control groups.

We take great pride in being an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, adhering to strict quality requirements and documentation practices that pertain to our accredited scope of testing. Our accreditation scope includes the following tests: 

• Tensile - ISO 527, ASTM D638, ASTM D1708
• Flex - ISO 178, ASTM D790
• Impact - ISO 179, ISO 180, ASTM D256
• Multi-axial impact - ASTM D3763
• HDT - ISO 75, ASTM D648
• Specific gravity/density - ISO 1183-1, ASTM D792
• Mold shrinkage - ISO 294-4, ASTM D955
• Conditioning of plastics - ASTM D618

Specialty Polymers

• Tensile, Flex, Compression
• Impact - Izod, Charpy, Multiaxial Impact
• HDT/Vicat
• Hardness, Density/Specific Gravity
• Mold Shrinkage
• Flammability
• Fatigue - Tensile
• Abrasion - Taber

• Shear Stress, Lap Shear, Shear Punch

Thermoplastic Composites (TPC)

• Tension
• Flexure
• Short beam shear (SBS)
• In-plane shear
• Compression
• GIC, GIIC