Modeling,analysis and optimization of stress-relaxation behavior of rubber products

Rubber materials have a wide range of applications because of their good physical and mechanical properties such as sealing, abrasion resistance, vibration damping, electrical insulation. They are used as elastic coupling elements and vibration damping elements. For a rubber product that is expected to fulfill the desired functions, the formulation is first prepared as the material and the mixing ratios are determined. Then the product is resized. In this thesis study, tests, modeling, analysis and optimization studies have been carried out to ensure the desired properties of rubber products. Modeling mechanical behaviors of rubber materials is rather difficult compared to metallic materials. They can show a wide variety of behaviors under load. In static loads, the rigidity curve is determinant, while in dynamic loads, the time dependent stress-relaxation behavior and the frequency dependent behavior under vibration are dominant. In this thesis, hyperelastic models of selected rubber products were made and stress-relaxation behaviors were analyzed. In addition, shape optimization has been carried out with the experimental design approach for the product. An approach has been put in place to ensure that rubber products are capable of fulfilling the desired functions in working conditions. This method can be used in particular for determining the loss of properties of rubber products used for sealing purposes over time. Thus, rubber products with the desired characteristics can be produced in a shorter time with less cost.