The Influence of the Adhesion Bond between Matrix and Filler on the Tensile Strength of Particulate-Filled Polymers

A theoretical model for the prediction of tensile strengths of particulate- filled polymers is proposed. According to this model each particle is divided into an in finite number of coaxial cylinders and by applying Cox's theory the mean stress developed in each section of the particle may be calculated. Further a modified rule of mixtures was applied where the degree of adhesion between matrix material and filler particles as well as the degradation of the mechanical behaviour of the matrix due to the existence of the particles is taken into account. Therefore, when tensile strengths of polymer and particles are known, tensile strength of the filled polymer corresponding to specific values of degree of adhesion as well as of the matrix degradation can be estimated by the model. Finally, the model was successfully applied to a series of published data.