Rationale

In the current version of ASTM E1820-25, Annex A18 (Guidelines for the Use of Direct Current Electric Potential Difference Methods for the Determination of Crack Size) uses the acronym “DCEPD” (Direct Current Electric Potential Difference) to indicate both the method and the potential difference measured across the crack plane in a fracture toughness specimen through which electric current is flown. In order to avoid possible confusion, it is proposed to use the acronym “DCEPD” only to identify the experimental method, while the measured quantity (variable) will be indicated with “voltage” (term commonly used in laboratory practice) or “V” (symbol of potential difference, already used in all the equations of Annex A18).