*3.3. Bending Test*

Three-point bending tests were conducted using the same Hounsfield tensometer previously used for the tensile tests. The performance of the bending test was based on the ASTM E290-97a standard. There were six rectangular-shaped specimens prepared for bending tests. The bending tests were performed on the face and the root of the joint. The three specimens presented in Figure 8 show the face of the joint (the surface that was in contact with the tool shoulder) and another three presented in Figure 9 show the root of the joint (the surface that was in contact with the backplate). For comparative purposes, the bending test was also performed on parent materials.

**Figure 8.** Bending specimens, (**a**) face; (**b**) root.
