Material characterization of curved shells under finite deformation using the virtual fields method

Although full-field measurement techniques have been well established, material characterization from these data remains challenging. Often, no closed-form solution exists between measured quantities and sought parameters. In this paper, a novel approach to determine the stiffness of thin curved membranes is proposed, based on virtual fields method (VFM). Utilizing Kirchhoff-Love shell theory, we show that displacements can be decomposed into an in-plane displacement rotation mid-surface shell. Consequently, strain tensor at outer surface then membrane bending part. This allows for VFM applied only surfaces arbitrary curvature. The first simulated data. It shown elastic modulus identified with less than 5% error if thickness Poisson ratio are known accurately. A uncertainty in either or changes value by 5%. Then, experimental acquired rubber samples having dome-like shape. Tensile tests performed same samples, which permits assess linearized Young's moderate strains (0–2.1%). Using regression analysis, 1.21 ± 0.08 MPa found. Next, pressurization eight shapes pressures up 4 kPa. average obtained 1.20 0.13 MPa. results good agreement ones tensile test. Future applications could benefit analyse more complex shapes, example those found biological structures like arteries eardrums.