New Modified Tear Test

Numerous rubber tear tests have been used for rubber evaluations.  The various methods include crescent tear (ASTM D624 Die C), notched crescent tear (ASTM D624 Die B), T-peel (ASTM D1876-01), and trouser tear (ASTM D624).  Various trouser tear geometries have been developed (ASM D624 and D470).  One of the preferred geometries is molded groove trouser tear.  In recent work a method to make molded groove trouser tear test specimens for components extracted from tires has been developed.  Various techniques for making the groove were evaluated to determine a preferred method.