A Computer Program for Generating Deformation Mechanism Maps for Polymers

Abstract : The deformation mechanism map is a means of representing the predominant mechanism of deformation within a material over a range of deformation conditions. This paper introduces a computer program which utilizes a number of theoretical models of deformation within amorphous polymers to identify 'fields' within extension rate-temperature space where particular deformation mechanisms operate. The program is able to delineate these fields using borders and include isobars to indicate stress levels. Very good correlation is seen between the computer generated mechanism map and experimental results for PVC. Whilst in it present form the program is restricted to amorphous isotropic polymers, it can readily be extended to incorporate semicrystalline polymers or composites, as suitable deformation models become available.