Finite Element Simulation of Indentation Experiment on Branched Epoxy Novolac Resin

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the micro-indentation test method on the branched epoxy novolac resin (ENR) and to validate it by means of finite element simulation. At the first stage, the micro-indentation test was carried out with the purpose of establishment of the Young's modulus of ENR by the empirical relation to polymer materials. Experiments were performed by using the Vickers-type indenter. At the second stage, the finite element model was used to model the load-displacement curve of the material with the use of the initial values of elastic modulus and yield strength of material. The effectiveness of the use of these properties was investigated by using the planning of experiments and response surface technique. Full factorial design method was used to perform a series of numerical experiments. Then, a comparison of the results of micro-indentation test and finite element simulations was performed in order to compare and validate the values of Young's modulus obtained from two different techniques. Good correlation between the experimental and numerical Young's modulus was observed.