Tensile strength is one of the most important mechanical properties of materials. It refers to the maximum tensile force a material can withstand before it breaks. Tensile strength is usually measured in units such as pascals (Pa) or megapascals (MPa) and is a crucial property of structural materials such as metals, plastics or composites.

Tensile strength is often considered together with shear strength to provide a comprehensive picture of the strength of a material.

In adhesive technology, tensile strength is used to characterize the adhesive itself, while tensile shear strength characterizes the strength of a bond.