Meaning
Mechanical toughness measurements under high-speed bending loads determine the energy required to propagate a crack through a standard specimen. For thermoplastic materials, notch Izod impact strength represents the resistance to brittle fracture when a stress concentrator is present. This value is critical for designers of parts that will experience mechanical stress or drop impacts during daily use.
Test Method
Laboratory assessment involves a heavy pendulum that strikes a clamped, cantilevered bar containing a milled V-shaped groove. The notch Izod impact strength is calculated from the height to which the pendulum swings after breaking the specimen. This measurement reflects the energy absorbed by the material during the rapid fracture process.
Material Comparison
Datasheet values for this property vary widely between different polymer families and filler loadings. Unmodified polypropylene exhibits a lower notch Izod impact strength than impact-modified grades containing rubber particles. This property is also highly sensitive to the temperature at which the test is performed.
Moulding Influence
Injection moulding conditions can significantly affect the toughness of the finished part. High melt temperatures can minimize molded-in stress, which can lead to a notch Izod impact strength that matches the resin datasheet. Conversely, excessive shear during moulding can degrade the polymer chain length and reduce the impact performance of the part.
Moulders must balance injection speed to prevent localized polymer degradation near the gate.