Polymeric Materials Characterization and Modeling

Polymeric material characterization and modeling requires some previous knowledge regarding material structure in order to enable the selection of more appropriate methods and models. Orientated by these requirements, the purpose of this chapter is elucidating different experiments and functions that can be applied to distinct polymeric materials. The nonlinear behavior of polyacrylic rubber is investigated through a strain energy density approach, as an effect of electron beam radiation on its behavior. Subsequently, adhesively bonded joints have their behavior studied through a modified Arcan method and, therefore, a failure criterion is presented. The third approach relates to a phenomenon, which is present at material interfaces, that may influence applications wherever material interfaces are present.