Evaluation method for microscale mechanical properties of an epoxy resin

This study offers a detailed quantitative evaluation of microscale properties of polymers utilizing the surface and interfacial cutting analysis system (SAICAS) technique. The investigation focuses on the formation of the primary shear zone (PSZ) during cutting, leading to plastic deformation and subsequent chip curling. This research explores various cutting thicknesses, each demonstrating unique chip formation, and applies a lubricant to mitigate friction noise and stabilize chip formation. An in-depth analysis of force geometries is performed to gain insights into chip formation. The shear strength and shear viscosity are calculated using relevant equations, thus enabling the quantitative characterization of the viscoelastic behavior of polymers. Remarkably, the polymers exhibit shear thinning behavior, where their resistance to shear decreases as the shear rate increases. The shear viscosity-shear rate plot follows the Ostwald-de Waele relationship, indicative of plastic flow behavior. The viscoelastic characteristics were validated by comparing the values calculated based on Atkins's theory with the quantified values. Then, the physical meaning of those values were discussed. This study facilitates the direct measurement of mechanical properties in solidified form of the polymer, offering a more precise representation than traditional test piece measurements. In addition, shear viscosity determination of cross-linked materials without pretreatment is achieved, broadening the scope of material analysis through quantitative comparisons.