Puncture characterization of rubber membranes

Abstract

Puncture resistance is among the major mechanical properties of rubber membranes, yet the intrinsic material parameters controlling the puncture of these materials are still unknown. To evaluate puncture resistance, the ASTM F1342 standard test is currently the most commonly used method. Using a conical puncture probe, this test is designed for any type of protective clothing, including coated fabrics, laminates, textiles, plastics, elastomeric films or flexible materials. This work aims to investigate the quantitative material parameters that control the puncture resistance of thin rubber membranes. Three commercial rubbers commonly used in protective gloves are investigated. The results demonstrate that the probe-tip geometry strongly affects the results in puncture characterization. The maximum puncture force depends on the contact surface between the elastomer membrane and the probe tip. The indentation force has been calculated for elastomer membranes with large deformations in the absence of friction, using the Mooney strain-energy function. The puncture strengths of elastomer membranes are much lower than their tensile and biaxial strengths. The puncture of rubber membranes is controlled by a maximum local deformation that is independent of the indentor geometry.