Material models for rubber based on indentation hardness: Comparison between theory and simulation

Abstract

The reliability of finite element simulations for rubber components largely depends on the accuracy of the material models used to represent the mechanical behavior of elastomers. A common challenge faced by simulation engineers is the frequent lack of detailed material models for the specific rubber compounds in use. This study addresses that gap by presenting practical, hardness-based approximation techniques for estimating material parameters. To this end, a range of established methods and equations for deriving parameters from hardness data is reviewed. Given the wide variety of rubber material models, the scope is limited to the Neo-Hookean model. Accordingly, several approaches have been developed to estimate Neo-Hookean parameters directly from hardness measurements. By examining the underlying principles, particularly those related to rubber hardness testing, this work aims to improve the understanding of these techniques and clarify their applicability and limitations. The accuracy of the proposed approximations is evaluated across various rubber materials by comparing the predicted stress–strain behavior with results from finite element simulations of indentation tests.