The failure of wood-based materials with impact loads is sometimes an important criteria in design considerations. In addition, some effects on the mechanical properties of wood, such as decay, are best evaluated by measuring its toughness. This test method serves to evaluate the toughness of structural panel products while Methods D 143 can be used to measure the toughness of solid clear wood specimens.

1.1 This test method for toughness of wood-based structural panels covers the determination of energy necessary to cause failure by impact loading of a beam specimen which is simply supported and loaded at midspan. Wood-based structural panels in use include plywood, waferboard, oriented strand board, and composites of veneer and of wood-based layers.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.