Nature of Poisson’s ratio of amorphous polymers and glasses and its relation to structure-sensitive properties

Abstract

A review and analysis of studies concerning the nature of Poisson’s ratio μ of glassy systems are presented. The value of μ is a more pronounced structure-sensitive property than are elasticity moduli. The unique relation of μ to the Gröneisen parameter is substantiated. In this connection, the interrelation of harmonic (linear) and anharmonic (nonlinear) characteristics is discussed. Poisson’s ratio is a single-valued function of parameters characterizing dynamic properties and critical processes and is sensitive to the lattice dynamics and the atomic–molecular structure of glasses. The structural features of isotropic solids with the negative Poisson’s ratio (transverse deformation coefficient) are discussed.