Abstract
In this study, a new and convenient mechanical testing method (Own-Weight Multi-layered Cantilever Method) is provided for measuring Young's modulus of each layer in a thin flexible multi-layered material (thin plate, rod, wire). The method is based on a nonlinear theory that takes into account large deformation behaviors of multi-layered materials. By means of measuring the horizontal displacement or the vertical displacement at the free end of the cantilever, Young's modulus of each layer can be easily obtained for various thin and long multi-layered materials. Measurements were carried out on a two-layered material consisting of SUS (a stainless steel material) and PVC (a high-polymer material). The results confirm that the new method is suitable for thin flexible multi-layered materials. In the meantime, the new method proposed in this paper can be applied widely to measure Young's modulus of every thin layers formed by PVD, CVD, Electrodeposition, Coating, Paint, Cladding, Lamination, and others.
