Abstract: A digital image correlation method is used to characterize the mechanical response of a polyurethane rubber (Tecoflex). Stress-strain curves under a tensile test for large deformations are measured using this technique along with the evolution of volume change. Loading-unloading stress-strain curves were also measured. A network model for large nonlinear rubber elasticity is used, with simplifying assumptions and fairly good results was obtained compared to the experimental data.

Key words: Biomaterials, Tecoflex, Mechanical response, Image correlation