Including Temperature Effects in the Theory and Simulation of Problems in Rubber Reinforcement

Both theory and simulation of polymer materials usually contain temperature as a variable – even though athermal models are not infrequent. Therefore, it is a futile effort to try presenting a comprehensive overview over all temperature-dependent results obtained thus far. The following approach is less ambitious, concentrating on three distinct examples utilizing different simulation strategies to overcome the so-called “scale problem.” This should provide the reader with an understanding of how to employ simulations creatively, combined with theory when needed, in the context of reinforced rubber materials.