Modeling the viscoplastic response of supramolecular elastomers

• Published in: International journal of solids and structures 2022-11, Vol.254-255, p.111919, Article 111919
• Main Authors: Drozdov, A.D., deClaville Christiansen, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Constitutive modeling; Structure–property relations; Supramolecular elastomer; Viscoplasticity
• ISSN: 0020-7683
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2022.111919

Mechanical properties of supramolecular elastomers (reversible polymer networks with chains connected by supramolecular and dynamic covalent bonds) differ noticeably from those of conventional elastomers with covalent cross-links. Due to the ability of supramolecular polymers to be reprocessed, reshaped, recycled and reused, they are considered as potential candidates for green and sustainable economy. A simple model is developed for the viscoplastic behavior of supramolecular elastomers at large strains. The model involves only four to five material parameters and describes adequately the response of supramolecular elastomers under tension, compression and cyclic loading in a unified manner. The governing equations are applied to the analysis of experimental stress–strain diagrams on supramolecular elastomers with various types of reversible bonds. Good agreement is revealed between the observations and results of numerical analysis. Correlations are established between types and concentrations of supramolecular bonds and adjustable parameters in the model. [Display omitted] •A model with only 4 to 5 parameters is developed in finite viscoplasticity of supramolecular elastomers.•Material constants are found by fitting observations on elastomers with several types of supramolecular bonds.•Good agreement is revealed between the experimental data and results of numerical analysis.•Distinctions between the responses of covalently cross-linked and supramolecular elastomers are discussed.