Dynamic mechanical analyzers (DMA) commonly implement low-force, sub 50 N actuators. Such systems must utilize beam-bending specimen geometries to generate measurable strains on glassy materials. Flexing beam geometries are fraught with experimental mechanics issues:

• Contact point friction creates partially fixed boundary condition (see Figure 1)
• Local contact point deformations at contact points contribute to perceived beam deflection
• Shear distortions from Poisson's ratio effects contribute to global displacement reading
• Beam strain rate varies through the thickness and along the length
• Temperature varies through the thickness in temperature ramp tests

Psylotech's DMA has sufficient force to apply load axially. The 3D DMA also measures strain locally, circumventing issues with beam bending specimen geometries. In addition to greater accuracy, both visocelastic Poisson's Ratio and Young's Modulus are measured, offering a more complete data.