Deformation and failure of polymeric matrices under swelling conditions

Polymers in which the diffusion mechanism was characterized by a sharp advancing boundary between the swollen shell and the core showed a highly anisotropic swelling response. The anisotropy of the swelling strains was caused by the mechanical constraints exerted mutually by the two regions of the specimen. The swelling stresses developing during the process eventually led to fracture of the polymer specimen. An analytical model which explained the modes of failure of the polymer under the swelling stresses was developed. The proposed approach was based on the general analogy existing between the studied swollen specimens and composite materials. A model for the prediction of the anisotropic hygroelastic response of the swollen systems was also proposed.