Author(s)

M.E. Rosa, R. Colago, M.F. Vaz and M.A. Fortes

Abstract

The contact of a cellular solid with a compact counter-surface can be analysed at various scales down to the scale of cellular dimensions. Based on a simple model of the surface topography, we derive an equation for the contact area fraction as a function of the applied compressive stress, which takes into account the collapse of the cells. We then discuss the sealing power of bottle corks and show that a perfect seal implies a contact area fraction of about 65%. The strain (and stress) in the stopper required to achieve this condition is estimated and compared to experimental results. 1 Introduction This paper is concerned with the interplay between sealing power and the mechanics of static contact of two solid surfaces. A perfect seal is achieved

Keywords