Modelling and experimental determination of the replication of a cylindrical shape relief

In that paper, one uses the concepts of contact mechanics to describe the quality of reproduction of cylindrical cavity shape by hot embossing. It results in a negative replica of the initial shape. This model takes into account the deformation of the polymer material imposed by the forming process. These results point out the influence of experimental parameters (temperature, pressure) as well as those of the elastic modulus (Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio). The analytical data are compared with the metrology results obtained using a scanning mechanical microscope in two or three‐dimensional mode. The set of data enables a predictive approach of the engraving quality depending on the polymer mechanical properties. The final goal is to adapt this model to the hot embossing process.