A theory of network alteration for the Mullins effect

• Published in: Journal of the mechanics and physics of solids Vol. 50; no. 9; pp. 2011 - 2028
• Main Authors: Marckmann, G, Verron, E, Gornet, L, Chagnon, G, Charrier, P, Fort, P
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2002; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Rubber material; Applied sciences; B. Stress softening; Condensed matter: structure, mechanical and thermal properties; Constitutive behaviour; Deformation and plasticity (including yield, ductility, and superplasticity); Engineering Sciences; Exact sciences and technology; Finite strain; Mechanical and acoustical properties of condensed matter; Mechanical properties of solids; Mechanics; Mechanics of materials; Physical properties; Physics; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Polymer network; Properties and testing; Solid mechanics; Technology of polymers; B. Stress softening; Constitutive behaviour; Finite strain; A. Rubber material; Polymer network; Constitutive equation; High strain; Inelasticity; Composite materials; Strain softening; Fillers; Cyclic loads; Elastomers; Natural rubber; Modelling; Experimental study; Interpenetrating polymer network; Rubber material; Stress softening
• ISSN: 0022-5096
• DOI: 10.1016/S0022-5096(01)00136-3

This paper reports on the development of a new network alteration theory to describe the Mullins effect. The stress-softening phenomenon that occurs in rubber-like materials during cyclic loading is analysed from a physical point of view. The Mullins effect is considered to be a consequence of the breakage of links inside the material. Both filler-matrix and chain interaction links are involved in the phenomenon. This new alteration theory is implemented by modifying the eight-chains constitutive equation of Arruda and Boyce (J. Mech. Phys. Solids 41 (2) (1993) 389). In the present method the parameters of the eight-chains model, denoted CR and N in the bibliography, become functions of the maximum chain stretch ratio. The accuracy of the resulting constitutive equation is demonstrated on cyclic uniaxial experiments for both natural rubbers and synthetic elastomers.