Thermomechanical modeling of elastomeric materials

A thermomechanical model for elastomeric materials is formulated using the method of anelastic displacement fields. The single anelastic field modeling methodology is presented in detail, including nonlinear finite element formulation. Numerical simulations using room temperature material properties and a classical Arrhenius temperature shift function relationship are presented. Material self-heating predictions are compared to experimental data. The results indicate that the model accurately captures material self-heating, as well as low-temperature stiffening and high-temperature softening effects. Simulations using an increased material shear thickness show the ability of the model to predict increased local temperatures and strains. Use of multiple anelastic fields improves the ability to capture material behavior over a broad range of temperatures and frequencies.