Fatigue Behavior of Polymers

Abstract

Fatigue failure of rubber‐like materials has been often previously modeled with classical power‐law approaches, however with the new generation of physics‐based fatigue models, choosing the proper model depends on the material, loading condition and the computational cost users can afford. In view of the high number of validated fatigue models, it is challenging for engineers to choose a reliable fatigue model for a specific application. In service condition, reliability of elastomeric components is influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from environmental service condition to mechanical loads and compound properties. In sensitive applications, assuring the long‐term reliable performance of elastomers subjected to multiaxial variable loading is necessary to ensure the durability of the system. The purpose of this article is to review different stressors that contribute to the fatigue failure of elastomers and the associated modeling approaches used to assess their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, this article summarizes the effect of thermal oxidation, moisture, hydrolysis, and radiation on long‐term aging of the fatigue properties of rubber, which has been studied over the last 50 years.