A TRIBOELASTIC MODEL FOR THE CYCLIC MECHANICAL-BEHAVIOR OF FILLED VULCANIZATES

Aspects of the mechanical behavior of filled vulcanizates are reviewed with reference to existing mathematical models. The basic equations o f the triboelastic theory, previously described by Turner, are derived . A standard triboelastic solid (STS) three parameter model, analogous to the standard linear solid, is described and a computationally effi cient approximation developed. Comparisons are made between the predic tions of the STS model and the behavior of testpieces of heavily fille d natural rubber vulcanizates when subjected to simple and to complex deformation histories at various frequencies; the model is found to gi ve a satisfactory representation of material behavior. Limitations of the STS model are also discussed.