1.1 This test method is for the determination of flexural strength of rod-shaped specimens of advanced ceramic materials at ambient temperature. In many instances it is preferable to test round specimens rather than rectangular bend specimens, especially if the material is fabricated in rod form. This method permits testing of machined, drawn, or as-fired rod-shaped specimens. It allows some latitude in the rod sizes and cross section shape uniformity. Rod diameters between 1.5 and 8 mm and lengths from 25 to 85 mm are recommended, but other sizes are permitted. Four-point-¹/₄-point as shown in Fig. 1 is the preferred testing configuration. Three-point loading is permitted. This method describes the apparatus, specimen requirements, test procedure, calculations, and reporting requirements. The method is applicable to monolithic or particulate- or whisker-reinforced ceramics. It may also be used for glasses. It is not applicable to continuous fiber-reinforced ceramic composites.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.