Delayed elastomeric failure as a function of temperature

The phenomenon of delayed mechanical failure in soft materials, e.g., characterized by rupture or fracture below tensile strength and toughness observed in continuous deformation, is important for evaluation of material performance and durability. This study investigates the underlying mechanisms of delayed rupture and fracture by examining the roles of bond dissociation kinetics and chain dynamics. Building upon previous work [1,2], which identified the temperature dependence of strength and toughness as stemming from bond dissociation, we show how the induction time for delayed rupture and fracture change with temperature and environmental contamination. For example, temperature dictates the rate of the internal clock, and therefore onset of the delayed failure is postponed at lower temperatures.

[1] Wang, Shi-Qing, and Zehao Fan. "Investigating the dependence of elastomeric fracture on temperature and rate." Rubber Chemistry and Technology 96, 530-550 (2023).

[2] Siavoshani, Asal Y., et al. "How do stretch rate, temperature, and solvent exchange affect elastic network rupture?." Soft Matter 20, 7657-7667 (2024).