A non-linear viscoelastic model with structure-dependent relaxation times (original) (raw)

A non-linear viscoelastic model is introduced for polymer melts and concentrated solutions, emphasizing the dependence of relaxation times on the material's existing structure. This extension from linear viscoelasticity addresses the complex, non-linear behavior observed in concentrated polymeric systems, highlighting the relationship between stress responses and structural evolution during flow. The model provides predictions for various non-linear responses and offers a critical comparison with existing constitutive equations.