A discussion on incorporating the Poisson effect in microbeam models based on modified couple stress theory

In this paper, an attempt is made to investigate the Poisson effect in modified couple stress microbeam models by use of available experimental data of an epoxy micro-cantilever. Euler–Bernoulli and Timoshenko microbeam models based on modified couple stress theory are employed to analyze static bending behavior of the epoxy micro-cantilever theoretically. It is indicated that incorporating the Poisson effect resulting in overestimation of bending rigidity of the epoxy micro-cantilever.