A Pseudo-Hyperelastic Model for Rubber-like Materials: Modeling and Validation

This work aims to develop a pseudo-hyperelastic model for describing the nonlinear large deformation behavior of rubber-like materials. The basic hyperelastic model considers the contributions of the cross-linked network, entangled network and logarithmic term. On this basis, the model parameters of the basic hyperelastic model are considered as rate-dependent functions, forming a pseudo-hyperelastic model that can predict rate effects. For the model validation of the basic hyperelastic model, uniaxial tensile and compression experiments of rubber materials were performed, and the new model accurately captured the characteristic behavior of the material from small to moderate deformations in tension and compression, which is superior to existing hyperelastic models. Further, the prediction ability of the new model for complex load types is greatly improved compared to other similar micro-mechanical models. For the validation of the pseudo-hyperelastic model considering the rate effect, dynamic compression tests were conducted, and rate-related parameters were introduced to the basic hyperelastic model, which effectively captured the deformation at different strain rates. Compared with the popular pseudo-hyperelastic model and viscoelastic model, the new model has higher prediction accuracy. The developed model can facilitate the ability to predict the deformation behavior of elastomers.