A micromechanics-based model for visco-super-elastic hydrogel-based nanocomposites

This article presents a micromechanics-based model that constitutively relates internal network physics of hydrogel-based nanocomposites with their visco-super-elastic mechanics. The is based on the Eshelby inclusion theory combined to concept cubic material volume take into account effective role inorganic nanoparticles finite-strain response hydrogels. Dynamic bonds between hydrogel chains and allow describe impressive time-dependent properties such as rate-dependent extreme stretchability, strong hysteresis upon stretching-retraction room temperature self-healing facility. compared few available experimental data variety hydrogel-nanofiller systems in terms stress-strain till failure, hysteresis, continuous relaxation self-healing. effects behavior loading conditions (strain rate strain level) structures (due variations reinforcing elements cross-linker amounts) are examined. micromechanical simulations found excellent agreement observations showing relevance proposed approach. mechanisms nanofillers reinforcement failure discussed respect model. characteristics connection history nanostructure. To further illustrate capabilities, finally treated under different biaxial conditions.