Predicting Failure Behaviors Of Thermoset Polymers

Useful predictions made from measurements on test-tube quantities. Mathematical model for viscoelastic failure behavior of epoxy or other thermoset polymer reduces considerably time and expense necessary to evaluate new polymer. One quickly obtains first-order estimates of viscoelastic properties, and decides more easily whether material rejected or good candidate for more thorough evaluation. Only properties required by model are equilibrium pressure vs. volume vs. temperature (PVT) response and linear viscoelastic shear and bulk moduli.