Materials - Modulus of polymer and metal

In summary, the large difference between the elastic moduli of metals and polymers can be attributed to their different atom structure and bond type. Metals have a crystal lattice structure, while polymers are arranged in chains, making it easier to stretch them. This leads to a larger elastic deformation portion in metals and a longer plastic deformation portion in polymers. Additionally, the end of the polymer's curve goes up because of its weaker bonding compared to metals. Further research can provide a more in-depth understanding of the deformation process for both materials.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Why is there such a large difference between the elastic moduli of metals and polymers?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I am thinking because of the different bonding between metals and polymers. Since metals have metallic bonding and polymers have different bonding (Covalent or Hydrogen bond? I am so sure about this) which is much weaker than metallic bonding, so it is much easier to stretch polymers.

Is this correct?

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
Good afternoon,

The biggest differences between the two is their atom structure and bond type. Metals are arranged in a crystal lattice, where some polymers are arranged in chains (Think a mess of spaghetti). Using this understanding, can you explain each step of deformation for a plastic and metal?

Why does the metal have a larger elastic deformation portion while the polymer has a longer plastic (irreversible) deformation portion?

Why does the end of the polymer's curve go up when the metal's goes down? (You already hinted to this in your work.)

upload_2018-6-26_11-53-12.png

When you answer his question and research some more sources like your textbook and the one posted below, you should be able to answer this question easily.

Polymer Source: http://www.virginia.edu/bohr/mse209/chapter16.htm
 

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1. What is the modulus of a material?

The modulus of a material is a measure of its stiffness or resistance to deformation. It is a material property that describes how much a material will stretch or compress under a given amount of force.

2. How is the modulus of a material determined?

The modulus of a material is typically determined through testing, where a sample of the material is subjected to a known amount of stress and the resulting strain is measured. The modulus is then calculated by dividing the stress by the strain.

3. What is the difference between the modulus of a polymer and a metal?

Polymer materials typically have a lower modulus compared to metals. This means that polymers are more flexible and have a greater ability to deform under stress. Metals, on the other hand, have a higher modulus and are generally stiffer and less deformable.

4. How does temperature affect the modulus of a material?

In general, the modulus of a material decreases as temperature increases. This is because at higher temperatures, the molecules in the material have more energy and are able to move more freely, making the material more flexible and less stiff.

5. Can the modulus of a material be changed?

Yes, the modulus of a material can be changed through various methods such as heat treatment, adding fillers or reinforcements, or altering the material's composition. These techniques can increase or decrease the material's stiffness and flexibility to better suit its intended use.

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