Comparison of Mechanical Behavior of Macro and Micro-Sized Ecoflex 0030 and 0031

Abstract

Dynamic system applications such as soft robotics, energy harvesters, smart skin, and wearable sensors, require highly stretchable elastomer materials. Ecoflex is a silicone elastomer that is increasing in demand but, the mechanical properties at the micro-scale for Micro Electronic Mechanical Systems (MEMS) are not fully understood. Ecoflex also has different formulations which have varying properties, and the material can be mixed with composites or varying ecoflex formulations to alter the mechanical properties. In this work, we illustrate the comparison of mechanical properties of micro and macro-sized samples of ecoflex 0030 and 0031 under uniaxial tensile test. Additionally, the mechanical response of the micro-sized specimens is studied by varying mixing ratios of two different formulations of ecoflex (0030 and 0031). Material properties of produced samples are investigated by subjecting samples to batch-to-batch repeatability test, cyclic loading, Mullins effect, and stress recovery test. Results demonstrate that the micro-sized samples exhibit higher stiffness in comparison to macro-sized samples. Blending ecoflex 0030 with higher a concentration of 0031 enhanced the ultimate strength and stretchability of the micro-sized sample in case of 1: 3 and 2: 3 (based on the 0030: 0031 ecoflex).