Nonlinear analysis of rubber-based polymeric materials with thermal relaxation models

Abstract

Using mathematical modelling and computer simulation, nonlinear dynamics of rubber-based polymers has been studied with due regard for the effect of thermal relaxation. Main results have been obtained for the case of elongational oscillations of a ring-shaped body subjected to periodic ('internal') boundary conditions. In this case a nonlinear model describing a combined effect of thermal relaxation and thermomechanical coupling has been derived, and the analysis of the behaviour of rubber-based polymers has been conducted numerically. Particular emphasis has been placed on high-frequency and short spatial variations of temperature and displacement where the role of nonlinearities in the dynamics of the material and their close connection with the effect of thermal relaxation time can be best appreciated. It has been shown how the vanishing relaxation time can lead to an attenuation of nonlinear effects in the thermomechanical system.