132 
resist compression; and, while definite standards exist for the shape of tension 
specimens, no such widely accepted standards exist for tests in compression. 
Before defining such a standard we must know the relation between the size and 
shape of specimens of different grades and their strength. Experiments to deter- 
mine their relation for wrought iron have been undertaken at Purdue University 
by the writer, in conjunction with Messrs. Fletemeyer and Alling, and the results 
are now offered to the Academy. 
There were tested 140 square-ended cylindrical specimens, ranging in length 
Z 
from 1 to 10 inches, an area from 1 { |’ to 1 { |”, covering a ratio of — from 5 to 
, ’ A Ly eo) 5 K 
60. The yield point in compression remained practically independent of the 
shape of the specimen, and the maximum resistance of the specimen was practi- 
Z : 
cally the yield point'when the ratio = exceeded 38 (10 diameters). For stouter 
Zz ash uae 
specimens, whose x Was less than 38, the maximum load exceeds the elastic limit 
a 
Z 
x being the same for 
by an increasing amount, the excess for a given value of 
different grades of iron, and different area of specimen. 
The material was plastic at 77,000 Ibs. to (_’” with a compression of }. 
‘The writer would recommend that the term compressive strength should mean 
either the elastic limit or the limit of plasticity, both of which are definite points. 
It does not seem that it is necessary to specify any standard shape of speci- 
men for compression. 
CampHoric Acip. By W. A. Noyes. 
[Abstract. ] 
The work done with Mr. E. B. Harris! indicates that cis-eampholytic acid 
may possibly be the neighboring /\’ tetra hydroxylyllic acid, 
CH, ie 
i 
yt, —CO, H 2. 
CH; 3. 
The paper gave an account of work which has been done in the endeavor to 
prepare this acid. The acid has not yet been obtained, and the difficulties met 
with have been unusual, but work on the subject is still in progress. 
1. Amer. Chem. Jour., 18, 694, 1896. 
