Materials - Modulus of polymer and metal

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the significant differences in elastic moduli between metals and polymers, primarily attributed to their atomic structures and bonding types. Metals exhibit metallic bonding and are organized in a crystal lattice, resulting in higher elastic moduli. In contrast, polymers, which are structured in chains and primarily bonded through covalent or hydrogen bonds, demonstrate lower elastic moduli and greater plastic deformation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these fundamental differences to explain the deformation behaviors of both materials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of metallic bonding and its implications on material properties
  • Knowledge of polymer chemistry, specifically covalent and hydrogen bonding
  • Familiarity with material science concepts, particularly elastic and plastic deformation
  • Basic comprehension of atomic structure and crystal lattice arrangements
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanical properties of metals and polymers in detail
  • Study the concepts of elastic and plastic deformation in materials science
  • Explore the differences in atomic structure between metals and polymers
  • Investigate the effects of temperature and strain rate on the deformation behavior of polymers
USEFUL FOR

Materials scientists, mechanical engineers, and students studying material properties, particularly those interested in the comparative analysis of metals and polymers.

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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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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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