Mechanical Properties of Polymers and
---Composites, 2nd Edition

Lawrence E. Neilsen and Robert F Landel. Marcel Dekker, Inc. New York, 1994. ISBN# 0-8247-8964-4.


This book presents a valuable resource for engineers and designers seeking to apply structural analysis and other advanced methods to the design of plastic parts. The reader learns what to expect for the mechanical properties of polymers and develops a grasp of how plastics respond to various applied stress conditions. The book introduces mechanical tests and polymer transitions, moving onward into chapters on elastic behavior, creep and stress relaxation, dynamic mechanical properties, stress- strain behavior and strength, It also covers abrasion, fatigue, friction and stress cracking. Additionally, the effects of fillers and fibers on these properties are considered.

By seeking to correlate these properties back to molecular structure, the reader gains an understanding of how to select the right kind of plastic for a particular application. Further, the reader learns what kinds of properties are needed to elicit the desired behavior of a plastic product and how to interpret the results in the fullest sense. By knowing what properties result in a particular behavioral characteristic, the engineer can design experimental strategies to maximum benefit.

In-depth coverage is given to time-dependent behavior and visco-elasticity, an issue which is intrinsic to understanding the behavior of polymers. The book also covers composites and the unique set of problems associated with these highly complex materials.

For the plastics CAE analyst, the book proves invaluable in the selection of the right material models to simulate a particular phenomenon and also to evaluate the quality of material properties that are used in the models. By gaining a knowledge of the expected behavioral trends of these materials, the pitfalls of unrealistic material models can be avoided.

This book is clear and concise, permitting the reader to draw immediate practical benefit toward solving day-to-day problems. Accompanied by an extensive and up-to-date bibliography, the book presents an excellent starting point for more detailed study should the need exist.


- This book was provided for review by Marcel Dekker Inc. (212-696-9000, www.dekker. corn), and reviewed by Hubert Lobo, president of DatapointLabs.