Hierarchical multi-mode molecular stress function (HMMSF) model for linear and LCB polymer melts

Abstract

We have developed a novel Hierarchical Multi-mode Molecular Stress Function (HMMSF) model for linear and long-chain branched (LCB) polymer melts implementing the basic ideas of (i) hierarchical relaxation, (ii) dynamic dilution, (iii) interchain tube pressure, and (iv) convective constraint release. The excellent predictions of this model were demonstrated in uniaxial, equibiaxial, and planar extensional deformation for linear and LCB melts, as well as in shear flow for a LCB polymer, with a minimum number of adjustable free nonlinear material parameters, i.e. one in the case of extensional flows, and two in shear flow.