ASTM C1211-13

1.1 This test method covers determination of the flexural strength of advanced ceramics at elevated temperatures.² Four-point-¹/₄ point and three-point loadings with prescribed spans are the standard as shown in Fig. 1. Rectangular specimens of prescribed cross-section are used with specified features in prescribed specimen-fixture combinations. Test specimens may be 3 by 4 by 45 to 50 mm in size that are tested on 40 mm outer span four-point or three-point fixtures. Alternatively, test specimens and fixture spans half or twice these sizes may be used. The test method permits testing of machined or as-fired test specimens. Several options for machining preparation are included: application matched machining, customary procedures, or a specified standard procedure. This test method describes the apparatus, specimen requirements, test procedure, calculations, and reporting requirements. The test 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.