BiMaTS
Description
HardwareX: Biaxial Testing System for Characterization of Mechanical and Rupture Properties of Small Samples
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In this study, we report the design of an open source, low-cost biomechanical testing system that allows us to characterize the mechanical and rupture properties of small samples with high accuracy and precision. The proposed biaxial materials testing system (BiMaTS) comprises four high performance actuators with inline load cells (8.90 N), high resolution imaging with image-based strain measurement tools, integrated temperature controlled media bath, and a LabView-based user interface for automated computer controlled testing with real-time feedback. The BiMaTS is able (1) to perform uniaxial and biaxial tests, (2) offers a large travel range (100mm) for rupture tests of small samples (~5-25mm long), (3) maintains a centered field of view for effective strain mapping using digital image correlation (DIC), (4) provides a controlled environment for testing of biological tissues under immersion (e.g. phosphate saline solution) and physiological temperature control, and (5) utilize many off-the-shelve components for easy manufacture. The repeatability, accuracy and overall performance of the instrument (i.e. displacement, clamp velocity, force, temperature, gripping slippage, strain mapping) was characterized using Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) samples with ASTM D412-C standard shape, following the recommended testing guidelines for rubber-like materials.