Reducing Environmental Stress Cracking in Plastic Parts

Around 25% of plastic part failures in the industry are related to Environmental stress cracking (ESC). Practically, it’s the leading cause of failure. ESC is often due to the combination of multiple factors (material, design, processing, in-use). You choose a wrong factor to focus on & you will find your entire time wasted! Reduce the occurrence of Environmental Stress Cracking in your plastic parts by joining Jeffrey (performed >1470 failure investigations). He will help you to:

1. Get a grip on ESC by understanding its underlying mechanisms (ductile overload, creep model) & factors affecting performance (materials, design..)
2. Better prevent ESC with practical considerations derived from Jeff Jansen’s own experience (polymers, chemicals & situations with highest risk)
3. Assess confidently whether your material is prone to ESC by using most suited test methods (ASTM D543, ASTM D1693..)

Design Engineers, Failure Analysts, Quality Engineers at Material Suppliers/ Plastic parts manufacturers who need to better understand ESC analysis to gain competitive advantage

Complete the course and (unlock your personalized certificate) – your badge of accomplishment awaits!

The following sections will be covered during this session:

1. Introduction to ESC
   • Plastics Failure Mechanism
   • ESC Failure Mechanism


2. Why do Plastic parts crack?
   • Polymer structure and its influence on ESC
   • The role of stress, strain, and environmental factors
   • Ductile Overload Cracking Model
   • Ductile to Brittle Transition


3. Elements of prediction of ESC
   • Material selection: Polymer composition and ESC resistance (amorphous vs. crystalline, molecular weight)
   • Stress Levels (Internal and External)
   • Stress Concentration Factors
   • Temperature
   • Exposure Time


4. Practical considerations to reduce ESC occurrence



5. ESCR test methods
   • ASTM D1693
   • Critical strain
   • Fracture mechanics & others….


6. Similar failures to ESC
   • Crack Tip Dissolution
   • Solvation/Plasticization
   • Dissolution


7. Practical Case Studies on Automotive, Hardware & Medical plastic parts
   • Reviewing Failure mode, cause & suggesting recommendations