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Influence of Prestretch on Planar Indentation of Elastomers: Insights From Experiments and Theory
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Influence of Prestretch on Planar Indentation of Elastomers: Insights From Experiments and Theory

Simeng Wu and Yue Luna Zheng
Journal of applied mechanics, v 92(3), 031001
01 Mar 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4067149

Abstract

Science & Technology Mechanics Technology
Elastomers exhibit a stiffer mechanical response and anisotropy when stretched in a specificdirection, which has led to numerous applications in biomechanics, surgery, tactile sensors,and more. This study introduces a comprehensive, experimentally validated analyticalframework to investigate the effects of prestretch on the planar contact between a rigidindenter and a hyperelastic substrate. By linearizing the equilibrium equation for incremen-tal deformation, we adapt the superposition principle to reveal how prestretch modifies themechanical response, which is reflected in a simple prefactor in the surface Green's func-tion. This modification facilitates precise calculation of contact mechanics properties,including indentation pressure distributions and displacement profiles, which are essentialfor assessing both global and local properties, e.g., force-displacement responses. Wefurther support our theoreticalfindings with numerical simulations and validate themthrough cylindrical indentation tests across various stretch ratios. These outcomes empha-size the feasibility of using ourfirst-order approximation theory in practical settings, espe-cially for the mechanical characterization of materials involving residual stress analysisand the development of advanced, model-based adaptive tactile sensors

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