3 credits
Fall 2025 Lecture Distance Learning Upper Division
This course will focus on the mechanical properties and behaviors of polymeric materials. The course will utilize fundamental solid and fluid mechanics to understand the response of bulk polymers (solid and liquid, above and below Tg). The impact of deformation rate and temperature on the mechanical response of polymers will be covered in detail. The course will start with an overview of linear elastic mechanics, move to rubber elasticity, and then viscoelasticity (concentrating on time-temperature superposition). We will also cover fluid dynamics and the rheology of non-Newtonian fluids. We will conclude with a section on deformation, yield, and fracture mechanisms (focusing on those phenomena that are unique to polymers such as rubber cavitation, drawing, and crazing).
Learning Outcomes1Demonstrate fundamental understanding of solid mechanics: draw a free body diagram and employ the correct equations of state to solve two- and three-dimensional statics and solids problems.
2Articulate in rubber elasticity.
3Utilize time-temperature superposition to generate a master curve to fully describe the mechanical response of a viscoelastic material. Apply "spring and dashpot" models to describe nonlinear materials responses.
4Describe a rheology experiment of a non-Newtonian fluid: interpret and analyze raw rheology data, identify key phase transitions.
5Solve simple fracture mechanics problems.
6Demonstrate an understanding of polymer deformation mechanisms.
7Apply polymer yield criteria to predict failure resulting from a given loading scenario.
Prerequisites
made by Purdue students.