The pressure distribution over the flat end surfaces of compressed solid rubber cynlinders

The shape of the pressure distributions over the flat end surfaces of compressed solid rubber cylinders have been determined. The cylinders were compressed between metal end plates. The pressure distribution for compressive strains of less than 3% is approximately parabolic. It is unaffected by the strains set up in the rubber due to the differential thermal contraction of the rubber and bonded metal end plates. A. method of extending these measurements to large compressive strains, and a possible future programme of work, is outlined.