Modelling the mechanical behaviour of filled elastomers poses many interesting challenges. To begin with there is the Mullins Effect, a manifestation of the changes in structure that the material sees as it is increasingly deformed. Also, materials show a type of strain-dependent viscoelasticity. This is simpler in the chemically cross-linked materials, and more complex in the thermoplastic elastomers. Lastly there is a small degree of permament set after deformation.
We are presently working on the development of a set of constitutive equations able to cope with all of these complex phenomena. This is all done in a framework that is compatible with the use of finite element modelling, and that will enable future designers to make better predictive calculations of the behaviour of rubber parts.
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For a list of publications relating to elastomers go here.
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