BS ISO 16770:2019 - Plastics: Determination of Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC) of Polyethylene

In the ever-evolving world of materials science, understanding the durability and resilience of plastics is crucial. The BS ISO 16770:2019 standard is an essential tool for professionals in the field of polymer science and engineering, providing a comprehensive methodology for assessing the environmental stress cracking (ESC) of polyethylene through the Full-notch Creep Test (FNCT).

Overview of BS ISO 16770:2019

This standard, released on September 27, 2019, is a pivotal document for those involved in the testing and quality assurance of polyethylene materials. With a total of 34 pages, it offers detailed guidance on conducting the FNCT, a critical test for evaluating the susceptibility of polyethylene to ESC, a common failure mode in plastic materials.

Key Features and Benefits

• Comprehensive Testing Methodology: The standard provides a detailed procedure for the Full-notch Creep Test, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• Industry Relevance: As a widely recognized standard, BS ISO 16770:2019 is applicable across various industries where polyethylene is used, including packaging, automotive, and construction.
• Enhanced Material Performance: By understanding the ESC behavior of polyethylene, manufacturers can improve the design and formulation of their products, leading to enhanced performance and longevity.

Technical Specifications

The standard is identified by the Standard Number: BS ISO 16770:2019 and carries the ISBN 978 0 580 92930 4. It is currently in the status of a Standard, reflecting its acceptance and implementation in the industry.

Understanding Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC)

Environmental Stress Cracking is a phenomenon where plastic materials, particularly polyethylene, develop cracks due to the combined effects of mechanical stress and exposure to specific environmental conditions. This type of failure can significantly impact the integrity and performance of plastic products.

The Importance of the Full-notch Creep Test (FNCT)

The FNCT is a critical test method outlined in the BS ISO 16770:2019 standard. It involves subjecting a notched specimen of polyethylene to a constant load in a specific environment to evaluate its resistance to ESC. This test is vital for:

• Predicting Material Lifespan: By simulating real-world conditions, the FNCT helps predict how long a polyethylene product can withstand environmental stress before failure.
• Quality Assurance: Manufacturers can use the results of the FNCT to ensure their products meet industry standards and customer expectations.
• Research and Development: The test provides valuable data for developing new polyethylene formulations with improved resistance to ESC.

Applications of BS ISO 16770:2019

This standard is indispensable for a wide range of applications, including:

• Packaging Industry: Ensuring the durability of polyethylene packaging materials under various environmental conditions.
• Automotive Sector: Evaluating the performance of polyethylene components used in vehicles, which are often exposed to harsh environments.
• Construction Materials: Assessing the long-term reliability of polyethylene pipes and fittings used in infrastructure projects.

Why Choose BS ISO 16770:2019?

Adopting the BS ISO 16770:2019 standard offers numerous advantages:

• Global Recognition: As an ISO standard, it is recognized and respected worldwide, facilitating international trade and collaboration.
• Improved Product Quality: By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can enhance the quality and reliability of their polyethylene products.
• Competitive Advantage: Companies that implement this standard demonstrate their commitment to quality and innovation, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

Conclusion

The BS ISO 16770:2019 standard is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the production, testing, or application of polyethylene materials. By providing a robust framework for assessing environmental stress cracking, it helps ensure the durability and performance of polyethylene products across various industries. Whether you are a manufacturer, researcher, or quality assurance professional, this standard is essential for staying at the forefront of materials science and engineering.

BS ISO 16770:2019

This standard BS ISO 16770:2019 Plastics. Determination of environmental stress cracking (ESC) of polyethylene. Full-notch creep test (FNCT) is classified in these ICS categories:

• 83.080.20 Thermoplastic materials

This document specifies a method for determining the environmental stress cracking (ESC) resistance of polyethylene (PE) materials in a defined test environment. The test is carried out on notched test specimens machined from moulded sheets/specimens or from finished products. The test specimen is subjected to a static tensile load when immersed into an environment such as a surfactant solution held at a specified temperature. The time to failure is measured.

The method has been specifically developed for polyethylene materials but can be used to evaluate PE products, such as pipes, fusion welds/fittings and blow-moulded PE containers to study the effect of aggressive environments, i.e. dangerous goods and chemicals.

The method is suitable for use with test specimens moulded to chosen dimensions or machined from compression moulded sheets or injection moulded specimens, or from finished products, such as mouldings and pipes. When the test specimens are machined from extruded or moulded parts, the results can be affected not only by properties of the material, but also by stresses or orientation introduced during processing.