Polymer and plastic testing
Polymer and plastic testing constitutes an essential service to evaluate the behavior, quality, and durability of polymeric materials in demanding industrial applications. At INFINITIA, we use these studies to validate materials, analyze their response under real usage conditions, and verify that they meet the technical and regulatory requirements defined by each sector.
In our industrial laboratory, we have specialists in polymer characterization testing who work with advanced technologies to study mechanical, thermal, chemical, and structural properties of materials such as polyethylene and polypropylene.
This type of analysis is particularly relevant in environments where plastic materials replace traditional metal solutions or form part of critical components, where any deviation may lead to in-service failures, economic losses, or safety issues.
What does polymer and plastic testing consist of?
Testing of plastic materials and polymers consists of the comprehensive evaluation of materials through methodologies that allow understanding their behavior from multiple perspectives. It is not only about measuring isolated properties, but about interpreting how the material responds to different stresses and environments.
At INFINITIA, this type of study is approached from an applied perspective, adapting each analysis to the real context of the component, with an emphasis on the thermal properties of materials like cellulose. Physical compression tests are carried out, including ISO, ASTM, and DIN standards, to ensure the quality of the tests for both traditional plastics and biodegradable plastics like PLA. Factors such as the type of mechanical load, exposure to environmental conditions, interaction with chemical substances, or the evolution of the material over time are considered, especially in the context of plastic production. This allows designing specific protocols that reproduce real usage scenarios in a controlled manner, using appropriate testing equipment for sustainable plastics.
Through mechanical testing of specimens, such as tensile, impact or flexural tests, together with advanced techniques such as DSC, TGA or FTIR, we carry out testing to obtain detailed information about the structure, stability and behavior of the material. These studies are complemented by additional analyses such as microscopy or climatic testing, which allow evaluating progressive degradation and detecting possible internal defects through analysis and testing.
Thanks to this approach, it is possible to anticipate in-service performance, identify deviations from specifications and understand the mechanisms that may lead to failures, facilitating decision-making based on objective data and proper material characterization.
Benefits of polymer and plastic testing
One of the main benefits of these studies is the ability to anticipate problems before they appear under real conditions, thus optimizing material performance from early stages of development or validation.
At INFINITIA, we have collaborated with companies in the automotive sector to evaluate materials subjected to cyclic loads, identifying degradation processes that were not detected using conventional methodologies. This type of analysis allows adjusting formulations, selecting more suitable alternatives or redefining usage conditions.
Likewise, in electronic applications, we analyze the behavior of polymeric compounds subjected to continuous thermal variations, verifying their dimensional stability and preventing failures associated with deformation or loss of properties. We also carry out studies in which chemical interaction is critical, evaluating resistance to aggressive agents or specific environmental conditions.
These tests help reduce field incidents, minimize costs associated with failures and improve the overall reliability of the product, providing a solid technical basis for decision-making.
Polymer and plastic testing at INFINITIA
At INFINITIA, we approach these studies from a comprehensive perspective that combines material analysis, forensic engineering, and comparative methodologies, including waste management strategies. Our objective is not only to obtain results, but to interpret the behavior of the material in its real application context, in accordance with ISO and ASTM standards.
We have advanced equipment for mechanical evaluation, thermal analysis, spectroscopy and microscopic observation, as well as climatic chambers that allow simulating accelerated aging conditions. This enables us to reproduce demanding scenarios and evaluate the molecular structure of the material over time.
Our approach is based on comparing samples in different states; for example, compliant versus non-compliant materials, and on designing specific tests that allow identifying relevant deviations in biodegradable polymers. This approach facilitates root cause detection, material validation and process optimization, providing added value compared to standard approaches.
Types of polymer and plastic testing for thermoplastic and polyolefin materials
At INFINITIA, we develop different types of tests aimed at understanding the real behavior of materials and validating their suitability depending on the final application. These studies are designed taking into account not only the intrinsic properties of the material, but also usage conditions, manufacturing processes and specific sector requirements.
In addition, these tests allow correlating material properties with performance in application, identifying relationships between composition, processing and final behavior. This approach is key to detecting batch-to-batch deviations, optimizing formulations, and selecting more suitable materials according to their real application, including traditional plastics and biodegradable plastic.
Mechanical testing of plastics and polymers in specimens or components
We evaluate the resistance of the material to different types of stress through tensile, flexural, and impact tests on thermoset specimens. These analyses allow determining key parameters such as elastic modulus, maximum strength, tensile strength, deformation or energy absorption capacity in rheological materials made of polymers.
Additionally, fatigue, creep or stress relaxation tests can be included to study the behavior of the material under prolonged or repetitive loads. These studies are especially relevant in applications where the component is subjected to continuous stresses or dynamic conditions.
In demanding applications, these tests are essential to validate materials, compare alternatives and ensure that they meet design requirements without compromising the integrity of the component over time.
Thermal testing and behavior with respect to temperature
Through techniques such as DSC and TGA, we analyze thermal stability, material transitions such as glass transition temperature or melting, and degradation with respect to temperature.
These studies allow evaluating material behavior under real operating conditions, identifying possible structural changes, loss of properties, or thermal degradation in types of plastic. They are also used to analyze the influence of additives, fillers, or manufacturing processes on material stability, including the effects on plastic waste.
They are especially relevant in applications where materials are subjected to continuous thermal cycles, high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
Chemical testing of polymer materials and plastic pollution resistance
We evaluate the response of the material to chemical substances, humidity or radiation, analyzing possible degradation processes such as swelling, oxidation, hydrolysis or loss of mechanical properties.
These tests allow determining the compatibility of the material with its environment of use, as well as its resistance to aggressive agents present in real operating conditions.
This type of analysis is key in applications where the material is in contact with fluids, chemical products or outdoor environments, allowing anticipation of failures and improvement of material selection.
Chemical, physical and structural characterization of polymers including recyclable and biodegradable plastic materials
Using techniques such as FTIR, optical or electron microscopy, we analyze the composition and internal structure of the material, detecting defects, inclusions, contaminations or variations between batches.
These studies allow identifying materials such as polystyrene, verifying formulations, and analyzing phase distribution or additives like starch. In more complex materials, aspects such as crystallinity or structural orientation can also be evaluated.
This type of analysis is key both in raw material validation and failure investigation, allowing understanding the origin of deviations in material behavior.
Accelerated aging and durability testing
We simulate extreme conditions through exposure to UV radiation, temperature, humidity or combined cycles to evaluate the evolution of the material over time.
These tests allow controlled reproduction of degradation processes that occur in service, such as loss of mechanical properties, color changes, or cracking in resins derived from polymerization, which is crucial for addressing plastic pollution.
Thanks to these studies, it is possible to estimate the lifetime of the material, compare alternatives and validate its long-term behavior, reducing uncertainty in critical applications.
Applications of polymer and plastic testing
Polymeric material testing has key applications across a wide range of industrial sectors, where its behavior directly affects the performance, safety and service life of the final product. Unlike other materials, polymers such as ethylene are highly sensitive to factors such as temperature, load, or chemical environment, making validation under representative conditions essential.
At INFINITIA, we perform advanced testing to characterize plastic materials, validate their behavior in service and optimize their selection according to each application. Our approach allows not only verifying initial properties, but also anticipating their evolution, detecting deviations and reducing risks associated with their use in demanding environments.
Automotive polymer testing: material validation under real service conditions
In the automotive sector, polymeric materials, including polyester, allow reducing weight, improving energy efficiency, and optimizing costs, while maintaining high standards of safety and durability. Their application in interior, exterior and structural components requires stable behavior under multiple stresses.
- Evaluation of mechanical resistance in components, including mechanical testing of specimens: analysis under vibrations, impacts, and cyclic loads in parts subjected to continuous use, particularly those made from rubber.
- Behavior under temperature: study of thermal stability under real conditions such as engine compartments or interiors exposed to solar radiation.
- Accelerated aging testing: simulation of combined cycles of temperature, humidity and UV radiation to anticipate degradation of synthetic polymers or recycled polymers.
At INFINITIA, we have collaborated with automotive suppliers identifying premature degradation associated with formulations or processes, avoiding in-service failures and supply chain rejections.
Aerospace polymer testing: material evaluation in high structural demand environments
In aerospace, materials must ensure reliable behavior under extreme conditions, where factors such as temperature, pressure or humidity can significantly affect their integrity. Validation of these materials, particularly thermoplastic and biodegradable polymers, is critical to ensure safety and performance in operation.
- Impact evaluation: analysis of visible and non-visible damage in materials subjected to sudden loads.
- Simulation of severe environmental conditions: exposure to humidity, temperature and pressure to evaluate stability.
- Structural integrity study: detection of internal defects, discontinuities or degradation of the polymer matrix.
At INFINITIA, we reproduce real operating conditions to validate material behavior in accordance with aerospace sector requirements, focusing on types of plastic used in this industry.
Electronics polymer testing: thermal behaviour and functional stability
In electronic devices, polymeric materials play a key role in insulation, encapsulation and structural support. Their behavior under temperature and thermal cycles is critical to ensure system reliability.
- Thermal behavior analysis: identification of transitions and degradation as a function of temperature of thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics is essential for ensuring material performance.
- Evaluation after thermal cycles: study of the effect of repeated expansions and contractions on the material and its joints.
- Dimensional stability control: verification of deformations that may affect assembly or operation, especially in thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.
At INFINITIA, we help a manufacturer, and validate materials to prevent functional failures and ensure product stability during prolonged use.
Packaging polymer testing: material compatibility and resistance under storage conditions
In the packaging sector, materials like polystyrene and PLA must ensure product protection, maintain integrity, and prevent unwanted interactions throughout their service life. Factors such as storage, transport and contact with the product are critical.
- Mechanical evaluation: analysis of resistance to impacts, compression and handling during transport and storage.
- Chemical compatibility: study of possible migrations or interactions with the content.
- Storage stability testing: simulation of real conditions to evaluate behavior in the medium and long term.
At INFINITIA, we ensure that materials perform their function without compromising product quality, avoiding issues in real use, especially when considering the use of plastics.
Construction polymer testing: durability against prolonged environmental exposure
In construction applications, polymeric materials, including synthetic polymers, must maintain their properties over long periods in environments exposed to radiation, humidity and thermal variations. Progressive degradation may compromise both functionality and safety.
- Evaluation against radiation and humidity: analysis of the effect of continuous exposure to climatic agents.
- Study of degradation processes: identification of aging, cracking or loss of properties.
- Long-term behavior: simulation of prolonged conditions to evaluate material evolution, especially in elastomers.
At INFINITIA, we validate materials for structural applications and coatings, ensuring durability in real environments.
Consumer goods polymer testing: quality, usage and material consistency
In consumer products, polymeric materials must provide reliable and consistent performance, maintaining their properties over time and meeting user quality expectations.
- Wear resistance evaluation: analysis of behavior under repeated use or continuous contact.
- Stability under usage conditions: verification against temperature, humidity or household agents.
- Batch variability control: analysis of consistency in properties to ensure production uniformity.
At INFINITIA, we help improve final product quality, reduce incidents, and ensure reliable performance under real usage conditions, while also focusing on recycling and reducing plastic waste.
Polymer research and development and recycling testing with INFINITIA
Polymer and plastic testing is a fundamental tool to ensure the reliability of materials in demanding industrial environments. At INFINITIA, these studies allow not only evaluating properties, but understanding the real behavior of the material in service, especially in polymers and plastics.
Our approach combines advanced analysis, comparison between samples, and the design of tailored tests, enabling failure anticipation, material optimization, and risk reduction associated with their use, particularly for recycled polymers.
The evolution of the sector points towards greater integration of advanced techniques, digitalization and simulation of behavior under real conditions. At INFINITIA, we are already working in this direction, developing solutions based on technical knowledge and applied experience in the field of polysaccharides.
Having INFINITIA as a technological partner allows transforming information into decisions, improving quality, safety and product competitiveness.
Frequently asked questions about plastics and polymers testing
What does plastics and polymers testing involve?
Plastics and polymers testing involves the comprehensive evaluation of materials through methodologies that allow their behaviour to be understood from multiple perspectives: mechanical, thermal, chemical and structural. It is not simply a matter of measuring isolated properties, but of interpreting how the material responds to different loads and environments under conditions representative of real use.
At Infinitia, this type of study is approached from an applied perspective, adapting each analysis to the specific context of the component: type of mechanical load, exposure to environmental conditions, interaction with chemical substances or the evolution of the material over time. This approach, which combines analytical rigour with industrial insight, makes it possible to design specific protocols that go beyond what options such as accredited laboratories, technology centres or universities can offer, complementing their capabilities with a direct focus on the industrial problem.
What types of tests are carried out on plastics and polymers?
Plastics and polymers testing can be grouped into five main categories:
- Mechanical testing (tensile, flexural, impact, fatigue and creep): evaluates strength, elastic modulus, deformation and behaviour under prolonged or repetitive loads.
- Thermal testing (DSC, TGA): analyses transitions such as glass transition or melting temperature, thermal stability and degradation under heat.
- Chemical and environmental resistance testing: evaluates the response to chemical substances, humidity or radiation, analysing processes such as swelling, oxidation or hydrolysis.
- Chemical and structural characterisation (FTIR, microscopy): analyses composition, detects internal defects, contamination or variations in the distribution of additives and fillers.
- Accelerated ageing tests: simulate extreme conditions to assess the evolution of the material over time.
At Infinitia we design the testing strategy based on the material, the manufacturing process and the application requirements, avoiding unnecessary analyses. If you need guidance, contact us and we will send you a technical proposal.
What is the difference between standardised and customised testing in plastics and polymers?
Standardised tests follow procedures established by bodies such as ISO, ASTM or DIN, making it possible to compare results under standardised conditions and facilitate compliance validation. They are useful when a component must meet a specific standard or when comparability with third-party results is required.
Customised tests are designed to replicate real conditions of use not covered by any existing standard. At Infinitia we frequently develop this type of study when a failure only replicates under specific combinations of load, temperature and chemical exposure. As an external technical partner, our approach is focused on solving the specific industrial problem, which is complementary to the capabilities of an accredited laboratory or technology centre when the case calls for a more applied perspective. You can see how we apply this in our customised setups and test design page.
What is the difference between testing a plastic for automotive and one for electronics?
Although the underlying techniques are the same, the validation requirements, reference standards and service conditions to be replicated differ between sectors, which determines both the test design and the interpretation of results.
In automotive, the focus is on impact resistance, durability under dynamic loads and stability against the chemical agents present in the vehicle environment. In electronics, the priority is behaviour under repeated thermal cycling and dimensional stability, verifying deformations that could affect assembly. In construction or packaging, long-term environmental variables and chemical compatibility are of greater importance. At Infinitia we adapt the testing strategy to the real requirements of each sector, without applying generic protocols that do not reflect the actual service conditions of the component.
What information does a fatigue test on plastics and polymers provide?
A fatigue test on plastics and polymers provides information on the durability of the material under cyclic loads: how damage initiates and propagates, the estimated service life of the component and the loading conditions under which failure occurs. Unlike metallic materials, polymers are highly sensitive to temperature and load frequency, which requires a specialised interpretation of results.
At Infinitia we apply fatigue tests together with creep and stress relaxation tests to study behaviour under prolonged loads, which is particularly relevant in applications where the component is subject to continuous stress. You can find more information on our fractography and microscopy tests page.
How is the durability of a plastic evaluated against environmental conditions?
Durability against environmental conditions is assessed through accelerated ageing tests that replicate, in reduced timeframes, the effects of temperature, humidity, UV radiation or chemical exposure to which the component will be subjected throughout its service life.
At Infinitia we use climatic chambers to analyse phenomena such as loss of mechanical properties, colour changes or cracking in resins, making it possible to estimate the service life of the material and compare alternatives. This is a particularly critical analysis in construction, packaging or consumer goods applications, where materials are continuously exposed to aggressive environments. More information on our accelerated ageing and durability tests page.
Why does the same plastic behave differently depending on the production batch?
Batch-to-batch variations in plastics and polymers can be attributed to four main causes:
- Differences in formulation or additive and filler content between raw material batches.
- Variations in processing parameters (temperature, pressure, cycle time).
- Deviations in the degree of crystallinity or molecular orientation generated during transformation.
- Presence of contaminants or impurities not detected during incoming quality control.
At Infinitia we address these cases through comparative batch characterisation (you can find more details on our comparative failure characterisation page) combining microstructural analysis, mechanical testing and techniques such as FTIR, DSC or TGA to identify which process or material variable is generating the observed variability. This approach enables decisions to be made on an experimental basis, not solely on documentation.
What tests does a plastic need to undergo for homologation?
The tests required to homologate a plastic depend on the sector and application, but in all cases they must provide objective experimental evidence that the material meets the required technical and regulatory requirements. Without test data, a homologation relies solely on documentation that does not guarantee the real behaviour of the material.
At Infinitia we support manufacturers in the automotive, electronics and construction sectors throughout homologation processes as an external technical partner, combining standardised tests under ISO, ASTM or DIN with complementary microstructural analyses and behaviour under extreme conditions. You can find more details on our material qualification tests page.
When is it necessary to carry out plastics and polymers testing?
Plastics and polymers testing is necessary whenever there is uncertainty about the real behaviour of the material under conditions of use: when validating materials during development phases, following changes in the manufacturing process, in response to in-service failures, or when compliance with technical and regulatory requirements needs to be verified. Relying solely on supplier specifications is not sufficient when the component is part of a critical application.
At Infinitia we have worked with companies in the automotive sector to evaluate materials subjected to cyclic loads, identifying degradation processes that were not detected using conventional methodologies. Having a specialised external technical partner makes it possible to anticipate these problems before they reach service, reducing field incidents and providing the experimental basis needed to make well-founded decisions. If you are unsure whether your case requires testing, contact us with no obligation.
What happens when a plastic component fails and I need to identify the cause?
When a polymer component fails in service, the root cause investigation requires combining failure mode analysis (fractography, microscopy) with the chemical and structural characterisation of the material and, in many cases, controlled replication of the failure in the laboratory under representative conditions of use.
At Infinitia we apply failure analysis methodologies to determine whether the origin lies in a manufacturing defect, a raw material deviation, a design issue or an unforeseen service condition. The outcome is a specialised technical report that can be used by a court-appointed expert as documentary support for their opinion, although the legal responsibility for the expert report always rests with the qualified expert. If the case involves a supplier claim or litigation, you can find more details on our expert reports page.
How much does a plastics and polymers testing service cost?
The cost depends on the type and number of techniques required, the volume and complexity of the samples, and the scope of the study: from a one-off mechanical test to a comprehensive study covering characterisation, durability and compositional analysis. A tensile test under ISO 527 does not cost the same as an accelerated ageing study with multiple combined conditions and a detailed technical report.
At Infinitia we always size the service to the real technical objective, prioritising the most representative techniques for the problem and optimising the cost-to-value ratio. If you would like an estimate tailored to your case, contact us and we will send you a technical and commercial proposal with no obligation.
How long does it take to obtain results from plastics and polymers testing?
Timescales vary depending on the type of test and the technical complexity of the case. Under normal conditions, typical turnaround times range from 1 to 4 weeks: compositional analyses or basic mechanical properties sit at the lower end, while durability, accelerated ageing or fatigue studies require more time depending on the conditions to be replicated.
For urgent situations (production line impact, critical project deadlines or the need to make immediate decisions) there is an urgent quotation option that can deliver results within 24-72 hours. If you have an urgent requirement, please indicate this in your contact request and we will handle it as a priority.
