Segmental dynamics in polymers: from cold melts to ageing and stressed glasses

摘要: Recent progress in developing statistical mechanical theories of supercooled polymer melts and glasses is reviewed. The focus on those approaches that are either explicitly formulated for polymers, or applications more generic to interpret polymeric phenomena. These include two configurational entropy theories, a percolated free volume distribution model, the activated barrier hopping nonlinear Langevin theory. Both chemically-specific universal aspects discussed. After brief summary classic phenomenological approaches, discussion relevant length scales key experimental phenomena both liquid glassy solid state presented including ageing response. central concepts underlie molten then summarized predictions discussed, glass transition oriented liquids deformed rubber networks. Physical occurs nonequilibrium glass, its consequences alpha relaxation Very recent segment scale theory dramatic effects external stress glasses, acceleration relaxation, yielding, plastic flow strain hardening, summarized. article concludes with outstanding theoretical challenges.