Micromechanical prediction of the finite thermoelastic response of rubberlike matrix composites

A micromechanical analysis for the prediction of the behavior of multiphase composites that consist of rubberlike matrices is established. Rubberlike solids are highly nonlinear thermoelastic materials that exhibit an anomalous behavior referred to as the thermoelastic inversion effect. It is shown that the derived micromechanical model is capable to predict this effect in reinforced rubberlike matrix composites. The detection of this effect in a composite and its severity depend on the type and direction of loading and the reinforcement volume ratio. Results are given that demonstrate the response to hydrostatic loading, as well as the isometric, isotonic, free thermal expansion, and isothermal behavior of nylon/rubber composites.