Non-Linear Tensile Creep of Linear Low Density Polyethylene / Fumed Silica Nanocomposites: Time-Strain Superposition and Creep Prediction

The main objectives of the study were (i) to quantitatively describe the nonlinear viscoelastic creep of model nanocomposites, (ii) to construct the generalized compliance curve by means of the tensile compliance vs. internal time superposition for a pseudo iso-free-volume state, and (iii) to predict the compliance vs. real time curves for selected stresses. To this end, the free volume theory of nonlinear viscoelastic creep developed for thermoplastics and their blend was successfully employed. Linear low density polyethylene/fumed silica nanocomposites, showing notable enhancement of the creep resistance in proportion to the surface area of incorporated nanofillers, were taken as simple model materials.