A model for the large-strain deformation of polyethylene

A model for the large strain deformation of polyethylene under uni-axial tension is described. Based on observations made by other researchers, the model describes hardening at large strains by considering dislocation nucleation and reorientation of slip planes within the crystalline phase. The temperature and strain-rate sensitivity of this behaviour are predicted with reasonable accuracy in a pipe-grade high-density polyethylene. The model has only three adjustable parameters which are the crystal shear modulus, the Young's modulus and a critical dislocation length.