Transformation of Energy by Rubber

Abstract

Abstract The data which have been presented indicate that elasticity is a property of rubber which persists through vulcanization and is not created to any great extent. The physical state of the rubber after any period of cure depends on the balance between suppression of plastic properties either directly or indirectly through the influence of combination of sulfur, and the creation of plastic properties through the influence of heat. It is probable that sulfur also combines at a slower rate with the elastic portion of the rubber and finally results in a product of almost no mechanical strength. The transformation of energy by rubber depends upon the condition of the rubber as well as on the condition of the test. Heat liberated by elastic strain can be transformed almost quantitatively into mechanical work. Heat due to internal-frictional resistance which will be caused by both plastic and elastic flow is not reversible. Any reduction in time required for the transfer of energy reduces the amount lost through plastic flow. An increase in temperature increases the resistance of the elastic portion to strain, but also reduces the resistance to flow of the plastic portion. Sufficient increase in temperature causes a large energy loss due to a considerable but limited permanent flow of the rubber. This cannot be plastic flow of the elastic portion, since it is limited in extent, but can better be explained by some mechanical change such as a breaking of the anchorage between portions of the plastic material and elastic network.