Quasi-Static Contacts

Abstract

We recall briefly the Hertz theory of elastic contact. Diverse ex- tensions including adhesion, or solid friction at the contact zone are briefly discussed. Other behavior laws than elasticity (plasticity, damage, fracture, visco-elasticity) are examined to analyse the limitation of the hertzian de- scription. We also briefly mention some other phenomena which interfere with this simple picture (large deformation, elasto-hydrodynamic effects, roughness). All this material is presented at a very elementary level, only resorting to scaling in order to underline the most salient features of this vast phenomenology.