A generalized network decomposition model for the quasi-static inelastic behavior of filled elastomers

Even in a simple quasi-static loading, filled elastomers demonstrate distinct inelastic phenomena, such as the Mullins effect, deformation induced anisotropy, permanent set, hysteresis, and strain-induced crystallization. So far, these phenomena have not been described by a single constitutive model. In the present paper we propose a generalized micro-mechanical framework capturing all aforementioned effects within a single constitutive formulation. It is based on the decomposition of the rubber matrix into five parallel networks considered to be the sources of the purely elastic behavior, damage, hysteresis, and stress hardening due to the strain-induced crystallization. The model is described by a relative small number of physically interpretable material constants and predicts the quasi-static response of filled elastomers in good agreement with experimental data. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.