Elmendorf Tear Resistance
topic
Elmendorf tear testing uses a pendulum device to propagate a pre-cut slit through a fabric specimen, measuring energy absorbed per unit tear length; tongue and trapezoidal variants address different fabric architectures and anisotropic tear propagation behaviours.
Role
Quantifies fabric resistance to tearing initiated by sharp objects or stress concentrations, essential for workwear, parachute fabric, and outdoor technical textiles where tear propagation under load is a critical failure mode.