Static versus low frequency dynamic elastic modulus measurement of thin films

A new experimental technique for evaluating Young's (or elastic) modulus of a vibrating thin film from a dynamic measurement is presented. The technique utilizes bending resonance from a remote acoustic excitation to determine Young's modulus. Equations relating the natural frequencies to the mechanical properties are obtained, and Young's modulus is subsequently determined. Young's modulus values from dynamic test are compared with those (static) obtained by a standard tensile test, and consistent results are obtained. The proposed technique is relatively simple and could be used to determine Young's modulus of a wide variety of sheet materials initially having no bending stiffness. It can also be used for determining other mechanical properties, such as compliance methods in connections with fracture mechanical testing, fatigue and damage measurements. This work emphasizes the feasibility of a damage assessment of components in-service by evaluating changes in the material characteristics.