Molecular Mobility in Deforming Polymer Glasses: Theories and Applications

This book bridges disparate fields in an exploration of the phenomena and applications surrounding molecular mobility in glassy materials experiencing inelastic deformation. The subjects of plastic deformation and polymer motion/interdiffusion currently belong to the two different fields of continuum mechanics and polymer physics, respectively. However, molecular motion associated with plastic deformation is a key ingredient to gain fundamental understanding, both at the macroscopic and microscopic level. This short monograph provides necessary background in the aforementioned fields before addressing the topic of molecular mobility accompanied by macroscopic inelastic deformation in an accessible and easy-to-understand manner. A new phenomenon of solid-state deformation-induced bonding in polymers is discussed in detail, along with some broad implications in several manufacturing sectors. Open questions pertaining to mechanisms, mechanics, and modeling of deformation-induced bonding in polymers are presented. The book’s clear language and careful explanations will speak to readers of diverse backgrounds.