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Glossary of elastomer processing

Modulus 100

Modulus 100 is a technical term typically used in manufacturing and materials testing, particularly for elastomers and plastics. It describes the force or stress required to stretch a material by 100% of its original length. Modulus 100 is usually stated in megapascals (MPa) and provides information about the elasticity and mechanical strength of a material.

Modulus 100 is a key parameter in materials science that describes several important properties of a material:

  • Elasticity: shows how flexible or stiff a material is at a given elongation.

  • Strength: provides information about the load-bearing capacity of the material under elongation.

  • Processing quality: serves as a quality characteristic in material production and testing.

  • Suitability for applications: helps in selecting the right material for specific applications, such as seals or elastic components.

Modulus 100 is measured in tensile tests in which a material is stretched under controlled conditions:

Measuring procedure

  • Specimen preparation: a standardised material specimen is produced, usually in the form of a strip or ring.

  • Tensile test: the specimen is clamped in a tensile testing machine.

  • Elongation: the specimen is stretched by 100% of its original length.

  • Force measurement: the applied force is measured and stated as modulus 100 in MPa.

Standards

Modulus 100 is measured according to international standards such as:

  • DIN 53504: testing of elastomers.

  • ISO 37: determination of tensile stress-strain properties.

Modulus 100 is a relevant parameter in numerous industries:

Automotive industry

  • Tyres: evaluation of elastic properties for grip and durability.

  • Seals: ensuring flexibility under mechanical loads.

Construction industry

  • Seals: checking the elasticity of materials such as rubber or silicone sealants.

  • Insulation materials: testing elongation and recovery properties.

Medical technology

  • Elastic components: ensuring material resilience under repeated stretching.

  • Implants: assessing the elasticity of biocompatible materials.

Sports and leisure industry

  • Elastic bands: checking recovery forces and durability.

  • Protective equipment: evaluating cushioning and elasticity.

Modulus 100 is influenced by various factors:

  • Material composition: polymer type, fillers and plasticisers affect elasticity.

  • Temperature: higher temperatures can reduce modulus 100.

  • Ageing: UV radiation, ozone and chemical stress can reduce elasticity.

  • Degree of vulcanisation: highly crosslinked materials show higher modulus values.

Modulus 100 is often compared with tensile strength, as both parameters provide important information about the mechanical properties of a material. The following comparison shows the differences:

CriterionModulus 100Tensile strength
DefinitionStress at 100% elongationMaximum stress before the material breaks
UnitMegapascal (MPa)Megapascal (MPa)
RelevanceElasticity and flexibilityMaximum load-bearing capacity
ApplicationAssessment of processability and elasticityMaterial strength and durability
  • Which materials have a high modulus 100? Highly vulcanised elastomers or materials with a high filler content typically have a high modulus 100.

  • How is modulus 100 used in practice? To assess the elasticity and load-bearing capacity of materials in technical applications.

  • Is a low modulus 100 better? That depends on the application: for elastic seals a lower modulus is often desirable, for rigid applications a higher one.

  • Can modulus 100 change through ageing? Yes, ageing effects such as exposure to ozone or UV can affect elasticity and therefore modulus 100.

Modulus 100 is an essential parameter for characterising the elasticity and mechanical properties of materials. It helps in selecting and optimising materials for different applications, from seals and tyres to medical products. Measuring and analysing modulus 100 makes a significant contribution to quality assurance and product development in industry.

Questions about this term?

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