This document specifies three test methods for the determination of the tear strength of vulcanized or thermoplastic rubber, namely the following:

—    method A, using a trouser test piece;

—    method B, using an angle test piece, with or without a nick of specified depth;

—    method C, using a crescent test piece with a nick.

The value of tear strength obtained depends on the shape of the test piece, speed of stretching, and temperature of test. It can also be susceptible to grain effects in rubber.

NOTE       A separate method for the determination of the tear strength of small test pieces of rubber (Delft test pieces) is specified in ISO 34-2.