This test method is designed to provide load versus deformation response of plastics under essentially multi-axial deformation conditions at impact velocities. This test method further provides a measure of the rate sensitivity of the material to impact.
Multi-axial impact response, while partly dependent on thickness, does not necessarily have a linear correlation with specimen thickness. Therefore, results should be compared only for specimens of essentially the same thickness, unless specific responses versus thickness formulae have been established for the material.
For many materials, there may be a specification that requires the use of this test method, but with some procedural modifications that take precedence when adhering to the specification. Therefore, it is advisable to refer to that material specification before using this test method. Table 1 of Classification System D4000 lists the ASTM materials standards that currently exist.