Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
This study proposes a novel nonaffine constitutive model to explore the functionality dependence and blob motion of rubbery polymer networks. The model posits that the deformation of polymer networks comprises two parts: the nonaffine motion of cross-linking points and the additional motion of polymer blobs. Building on the p -chain model, polymers are conceptualized as aggregates of homogeneous unit cells undergoing initial phantom deformations, followed by additional movements to align with macroscopic block deformations. The collapse of polymer blobs is analyzed through phantom network, kinetic energy, and the deformation gradient. The functionality ( f ) and the second invariant ( I 2 ) are identified as pivotal factors in understanding nonaffine deformations. The proposed model was validated using experimental data from vulcanized natural rubber, PAAm hydrogel, and P(BMA- co -MEA)-Li elastomers. The results demonstrate a strong alignment between theoretical predictions and experimental observations. This study provides new insights into the mechanical behavior of rubbery polymers and offers a robust framework for predicting their responses under diverse deformation conditions.
Xing et al. (Mon,) studied this question.