TEST RESULTS

Tests Conducted At: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Pallet and Container Laboratory - 2003

ASTM Test Standards: This protocol consists of four distinct pallet performance measures:

1. The Warehouse Racking Bending Strength Stiffness Test
2. Drop Test Impact Resistance
3. Top Deck Endboard Impact Resistance (Ram Test)
4. Forktine Tip Impact Resistance

In all tests, Lexite™ substantially exceeded both the industry standard and the performance of typical GMA wooden pallets.

1. The Warehouse Racking Bending Strength and Stiffness Test

This test attempts to replicate the loads and stresses on a pallet when it is supported at either end while the remainder of the pallet is suspended between the end supports.

Pallets made from Lexite™ when compared to similar wooden pallets are 66% stronger than wooden pallets, experience 66% less deflection at creep load than wood, and recover their original shape 61% better than wood.

2. Drop Test Impact Resistance

Corner drop testing is performed to evaluate the diagonal rigidity of the pallets and the resistance of the pallets to impact from multiple drops from a height of 40 inches. The pallet is essentially held at height from a corner and dropped on the opposite corner.

Lexite™ pallets are minimally ten times more rigid and diagonally stable than wooden pallets when dropped or subjected to rough handling, and arguably sixteen times more durable than comparable wooden pallets.

3. Top Deck Lead Edge Board Impact Resistance (Ram Test)

This forklift endurance test evaluates how many times and how hard a forktine heel can impact the Lead Edge Board of a pallet before the board is either destroyed or ripped loose from the pallet.

Lexite™ was the first composite material tested that did not suffer from nail head pull through. Lexite™ stringers do not split or splinter when repaired and nailed multiple times. Lexite™ pallets are 59% more impact resistant than similar wood pallets.

4. Fork tine Tip Impact Resistance

Tests Conducted At: U.S. Army Defense Ammunition Center
McAlester, Oklahoma - July, 2003

The Military Standard Test, consisting of five separate performance criteria, have been developed and implemented to determine whether or not pallet configurations and materials meet military test requirements for use in unitization procedures by the U.S. Army.

Lexite™ pallets passed all requirements of the MIL-STD-1660 testing.

Compression Test:
This test is completed with compression of a load force totaling 7,125 pounds applied consistently for 60 minutes. There was no damage noted to the Lexite™ pallet as a result of this test.

Repetitive Shock Test:
This test is completed by applying 90 minutes of 200 RPM vibration in both the longitudinal and lateral pallet orientation. There was no apparent damage sustained during this test.

Edgewise Rotational Drop Test:
This test is completed by rotating and dropping full pallets from a height of 15 inches on both longitudinal sides and both lateral sides. No damage was noted from this test.

Incline-Impact Test:
In this test, loaded pallets are inclined and then rammed into a stationary wall from a distance of 8 feet. No problems were encountered with Lexite™ pallets during this test.

Forklift Test:
Pallets are tested for their integrity and durability during forklift handling and maneuvers. Loaded pallets are carried by forklift over a specially designed test hazard course three times. No damage or instability to the Lexite™ pallet was noted.