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This test method is utilized to determine constituent content of composite materials. It is knowledge that isessential for properly evaluating the quality of fabricated parts. The results are directly related to thematerials and the processes used during fabrication. This information is equally valuable for analyticallymodeling the material properties and for normalizing mechanical data.
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11/19/2015 ASTM D3171 Test Element Materials Technology (formerly Delsen Testing Laboratories)
http://www.delsen.com/tests/ASTM_D3171_Test.htm 1/2
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ASTM D3171 TestConstituent Content of Composite Materials
(Resin, Fiber and Void Content)
Test Significance:This test method is utilized to determine constituent content of composite materials. It is knowledge that isessential for properly evaluating the quality of fabricated parts. The results are directly related to thematerials and the processes used during fabrication. This information is equally valuable for analyticallymodeling the material properties and for normalizing mechanical data.
Focus:The test method removes the matrix by digestion or ignition, leaving the reinforcement virtually unaffected,enabling the tester to calculate reinforcement or matrix content, by weight or volume and to determine percentvoid volume.
Testing Process:Three specimens are typically prepared to represent one part or panel. Additional specimens may beprepared if different areas of the panel or part are to be characterized. After the test specimen density is
11/19/2015 ASTM D3171 Test Element Materials Technology (formerly Delsen Testing Laboratories)
http://www.delsen.com/tests/ASTM_D3171_Test.htm 2/2
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determined per ASTM D792, the specimens are placed in a beaker or flask, where they areheated/refluxed until all organic material is fully dissolved. The various procedures are specified by letters;Procedure A, nitric acid, and Procedure B, sulfuric acid/hydrogen peroxide digestions, are typically usedfor carbon fiber reinforced composites. After digestion, the remnant fibers are filtered, rinsed, dried andweighed. Procedure G, burn off, is typically used on glass or quartz reinforced composite materials, whichare weighed in a crucible after the matrix is burned off in a muffle furnace. Reinforcement Content, MatrixContent and Void Content are then determined from the specimen and constituent densities, as well asthe fiber content by weight. These are typically expressed as a percent fiber volume, resin volume andvoid volume or void content. For hybrid composites, multiple procedures may be used to determinecarbon, glass, resin and void volume independently.
Specimen Dimensions:A common specimen size is 1 gram.
