Nonlinear mechanical response of high density polyethylene. Part II: Uniaxial constitutive modeling

Abstract

Abstract Based on the experimental data presented in Part I, two uniaxial constitutive models are constructed. The first, a nonlinear viscoelastic (NVE) model, is formulated using the mechanical analogy consisting of one independent spring and six Kelvin elements in series. Creep data are used to determine the model parameters. The second model, a viscoplastic (VP) formulation, is developed using the viscoplastic theory proposed by Bodner to characterize the uniaxial viscoplastic behavior of metals. Inelastic strain rate is introduced into the state variable in addition to inelastic work to depict the strong rate dependent behavior of HDPE. Experimental data from constant strain rate tests are employed to construct the material functions of the model. Limitations in the application of each model are discussed in conjunction with possibilities for future work.