Molecular weight distribution dependent kernels in generalized mixing rules

In this article a model is proposed for the kernel in the generalized mixin g rule recently formulated by Anderssen and Mead [Anderssen, R. S. and D. W . Mead, J. Non-Newtonian Fluid Mech. 76, 299-306 (1998)]. In order to deriv e such a model, it is necessary to take into account the rheological signif icance of the kernel in terms of the relaxation behavior of the individual polymers involved. This naturally leads to examining how additional physica l effects, which depend on the molecular weight distribution, can be includ ed in the mixing rule. The advantage of this approach is that, without chan ging the generality of the Anderssen and Mead (1998) rule, the choice of th e kernel can be used to enhance the physical and rheological significance o f their mixing rule. (C) 2000 The Society of Rheology. [S0148-6055(00)00506 -X].