Characterization and differentiation of gel-like elastomers and compact silicones in order to realize a sensorial rating

Sensorial tests on silicones tackiness perception with naïve consumers show that the stickiness sensation can be disturbed by the sensation of finger penetration into the sample. Indeed a frequent report is that a non-expert people cannot perceive whether tackiness sensation is related to the material adhesion properties or whether it is related to the finger penetration. The samples are both elastomers silicones but some are gel-like elastomers and others are compact silicones. We use an experimental device to realize indentation tests in order to try to differentiate mechanically the two silicones. The apparatus developed in the laboratory allows to characterize and to study the adhesion properties of materials. The analysis of the results should allow to investigate which parameter can influence the sensorial analysis of tackiness.