Stiffness evaluation of contacting surfaces by bulk and interface waves
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

A Millimeter Scale Flexural Testing System for Measuring the Mechanical Properties of Marine Sponge Spicules
Published on: October 11, 2017
Shiro Biwa1, Shunsuke Hiraiwa, Eiji Matsumoto
1Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan. biwa@energy.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Abstract:
This paper describes ultrasonic measurements of normal and tangential stiffnesses of the contacting interface between polished aluminum blocks subjected to nominal contact pressures up to about 3.8 MPa. These stiffnesses were evaluated by ultrasonic spectroscopy methods for the bulk (longitudinal and transverse) wave reflection coefficients and the anti-symmetric mode interface wave velocity. The measurements revealed the interfacial stiffnesses as functions of the frequency as well as the applied contact pressure. The ratio of the tangential and normal stiffnesses is discussed in the light of foregoing theoretical and experimental findings. Furthermore, possible explanations for the frequency dependence of the measured stiffnesses are reviewed, invoking the spatial inhomogeneity of the interfacial stiffness as well as its lossy nature.
Related Concept Videos
Applications of Stress
The...
Stress: General Loading Conditions
The shearing force, possessing potential directionality within the plane of the section, is simplified into two component forces running parallel to the x and y axes.
Frictional Force
Residual Stresses in Bending
Relation between Poisson's ratio, Modulus of Elasticity and Modulus of Rigidity
Mechanical Characteristics of Steel
The tension test is fundamental for determining tensile strength. In this test, a steel specimen is stretched using a gripping device until it breaks. The data collected during this test are used to...

