A Predictive Model for Polymerization Shrinkage Stress Derived from Photocuring Kinetics

Residual stress generated during the photopolymerization process remains a significant challenge due to its complex origins. Excessive stress accumulation can compromise material performance. In this study, a coupled photopolymerization kinetics and shrinkage stress model was developed to predict stress evolution during UV curing. The kinetic parameters were optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA) based on experimental data and validated through real-time FT-IR and photo rheometer. The simulation results showed good agreement with experimental measurements and successfully captured the effects of monomer conversion and crosslink density on shrinkage stress. This model offers a reliable predictive tool for shrinkage stress in UV-curable systems and provides valuable reference for future material design and process optimization.