Transient Network Theory (TNT)¶
Transient Network Theory Foundations
Transient Network Theory (TNT) describes materials with reversible crosslinks that continuously break and reform on characteristic timescales, creating dynamic networks with time-dependent mechanical properties.
Physical Basis:
Network strands: Polymer chains or other elements spanning crosslink junctions
Crosslink lifetime (\(\tau_b\)): Mean bond survival time before detachment
Creation rate: New bonds form to maintain equilibrium network density
Conformation tensor (\(\mathbf{S}\)): Tracks average chain stretch and orientation
Characteristic Experimental Signatures:
Single relaxation mode: Maxwell-like behavior with relaxation time \(\tau = \tau_b\)
Shear thinning: Viscosity decreases as flow disrupts network structure
Strain softening: Modulus reduction under large deformations (chain stretch)
Transient overshoot: Stress peaks during startup as network orientation saturates
Normal stress differences: \(N_1 > 0\) from chain anisotropy (extensional resistance)
Fundamental Constitutive Equation:
where \(\mathbf{\kappa}\) is the velocity gradient and \(\mathbf{I}\) is the identity. The stress is given by \(\boldsymbol{\sigma} = G \cdot f(\mathbf{S})\) where \(f(\mathbf{S})\) depends on the chain model:
Hookean: \(f(\mathbf{S}) = \mathbf{S} - \mathbf{I}\) (linear)
FENE-P: \(f(\mathbf{S}) = \frac{L^2_{max}}{L^2_{max} - \text{tr}(\mathbf{S}) + 3}(\mathbf{S} - \mathbf{I})\) (finite extensibility)
Bond Kinetics Models:
Kinetics |
Breakage Rate \(1/\tau_b\) |
Use Case |
|---|---|---|
Constant (Tanaka-Edwards) |
\(1/\tau_0\) |
Baseline Maxwell-like |
Bell Model |
\((1/\tau_0)\exp(\nu F/k_BT)\) |
Force-activated unbinding |
Power-law |
\((1/\tau_0)(F/F_0)^m\) |
Empirical force-weakening |
Stretch-enhanced creation |
Creation \(\propto \text{tr}(\mathbf{S})\) |
Strain-induced crosslinking |
Advanced Extensions:
Loop-bridge equilibrium: Two-species kinetics (\(f_B\) equilibrium bridge fraction)
Sticky Rouse: Multi-mode relaxation with sticker-limited dynamics
Cates model: Living polymers with scission/recombination
Non-affine slip: Gordon-Schowalter parameter \(\xi\) for partial coupling
Multi-species networks: Multiple bond types with different lifetimes and moduli
Model Selection Guide:
Model |
Best For |
|---|---|
TNTSingleMode (constant) |
Simple physical gels, baseline characterization |
TNTSingleMode (Bell) |
Bio-networks with force-sensitive bonds (fibrin, collagen) |
TNTSingleMode (FENE-P) |
Polymeric gels near maximum extensibility |
Telechelic polymers with two junction types |
|
Multi-sticker associating polymers (broad relaxation) |
|
Wormlike micelles, living polymers |
|
TNTSingleMode (Non-Affine) |
Networks with imperfect chain-flow coupling (\(N_2 \neq 0\)) |
TNTSingleMode (Stretch-Creation) |
Strain-crystallizing or mechanophore-activated networks |
Dual-crosslinked hydrogels, multi-strength assemblies |
Dual Formulation:
TNT models admit two mathematically equivalent formulations:
Differential (conformation tensor ODE): Evolve \(\mathbf{S}(t)\) via the constitutive ODE above — efficient for steady-state and simple histories
Integral (cohort/history): Track chain cohorts born at each time \(t'\) and integrate their stress contributions — natural for complex deformation histories
Both yield identical predictions; the choice is computational convenience. See TNT Protocol Equations — Shared Reference for details.
Typical Parameter Ranges:
Network modulus \(G\): 1–\(10^6\) Pa (depends on crosslink density)
Bond lifetime \(\tau_b\): \(10^{-6}\)–\(10^4\) s (wide range across materials)
Bell parameter \(\nu\): 0.01–20 (bond sensitivity to force)
FENE extensibility \(L_{\max}\): 2–100 (chain contour length ratio)
Slip parameter \(\xi\): 0 (affine) to 1 (full slip)
Overview¶
The TNT family in RheoJAX provides 5 model classes spanning 9 distinct physical variants, from simple single-mode Maxwell analogs to complex multi-species living polymer systems. All models support the full suite of rheological protocols (flow curves, SAOS, LAOS, startup, creep, relaxation) with validated predictions against experimental data. The mathematical framework is implemented in JAX with full automatic differentiation support, enabling GPU acceleration and Bayesian inference via NumPyro NUTS sampling. See the foundation box above for the physical basis, key signatures, and constitutive equations shared across all TNT variants.
Dual Formulation — Integral vs Differential
TNT admits two mathematically equivalent perspectives:
Differential (conformation tensor ODE) — the primary RheoJAX implementation:
Integral (history / cohort) formulation — useful for step-strain analysis and multi-protocol understanding:
where \(\beta(t')\) is the birth rate of chains at time \(t'\), \(S(t,t') = \exp\!\bigl[-\int_{t'}^{t} k_d(s)\,ds\bigr]\) is the survival probability, and \(\mathbf{B}(t,t')\) is the Finger deformation tensor.
The integral form tracks cohorts of chains born at time \(t'\), each carrying its deformation history. The differential form evolves the ensemble average conformation \(\mathbf{S}(t)\). Both yield identical stress predictions. See TNT Protocol Equations — Shared Reference for the full derivation and numerical methods for each approach.
Model Hierarchy¶
TNT Family (5 Classes, 9 Variants)
│
├── TNTSingleMode (Composable, 5 variants)
│ │ Base: Constant breakage (Tanaka-Edwards)
│ │ Maxwell-like with tensorial stress
│ │ Parameters: G, τ_b, η_s
│ │
│ ├── breakage="constant" (default)
│ │ └── Tanaka-Edwards: 1/τ_b = const
│ │ Simplest TNT, baseline for comparison
│ │
│ ├── breakage="bell"
│ │ └── Force-dependent detachment
│ │ 1/τ_b = (1/τ_0) exp(ν·F/k_B·T)
│ │ For bio-networks with catch/slip bonds
│ │ Additional parameter: ν (force sensitivity)
│ │
│ ├── breakage="power_law"
│ │ └── Power-law force weakening
│ │ 1/τ_b = (1/τ_0)(F/F_0)^m
│ │ Empirical extension, m ~ 1-5
│ │
│ ├── stress_type="fene" (FENE-P finite extensibility)
│ │ └── Chain force: F = 3k_B·T·L²_max/(L²_max - tr(S) + 3)
│ │ Polymer gels with limited chain stretch
│ │ Additional parameter: L_max (extensibility)
│ │ Nonlinear softening at large strains
│ │
│ └── xi > 0 (Non-affine slip, Gordon-Schowalter)
│ └── Partial coupling: S evolves with ξ ∈ [0, 1]
│ ξ = 0: Affine (full coupling)
│ ξ = 1: Full slip (isotropic stress)
│ Reduces N₁ predictions, empirical correction
│
├── TNTLoopBridge (Two-species kinetics)
│ │ Telechelic polymers with loops + bridges
│ │ Equilibrium: f_B(eq) = bridge fraction
│ │ Kinetics: df_B/dt = k_loop→bridge - k_bridge→loop
│ │
│ └── Parameters: G, τ_b, τ_a, ν, f_B_eq, η_s
│ Only bridges contribute to stress
│ Loops act as dangling ends (viscous)
│ 6 parameters (richer dynamics than SingleMode)
│
├── TNTStickyRouse (Multi-mode sticker dynamics)
│ │ Rouse modes limited by sticker lifetime
│ │ τ_p = τ_s + (N/p²)·τ_Rouse (hybrid timescale)
│ │
│ └── Parameters: G_k (N moduli), τ_R_k (N Rouse times), τ_s, η_s (2N+2 parameters)
│ Broad relaxation spectrum
│ Terminal time: τ_terminal ≈ τ_s + N·τ_Rouse
│ For multi-sticker associating polymers
│
├── TNTCates (Living polymers / wormlike micelles)
│ │ Scission/recombination kinetics
│ │ Effective relaxation: τ_d = √(τ_rep · τ_break)
│ │
│ └── Parameters: G_0, τ_rep, τ_break, η_s
│ Single effective mode (faster of rep/break)
│ Shear-thinning from reduced effective length
│ For micellar solutions (CTAB, CPCl, etc.)
│
└── TNTMultiSpecies (N independent bond types)
│ Distinct G_i, τ_i for each species
│ Additive stress: σ_total = Σ_i σ_i
│
└── Parameters: {G_i, τ_b_i} for i=0..N-1, η_s
Discrete relaxation spectrum
For heterogeneous crosslink populations
N typically 2-5 (more = fit flexibility vs physics)
When to Use Which Model¶
Feature |
SingleMode |
LoopBridge |
StickyRouse |
Cates |
MultiSpecies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Material type |
Physical gels |
Telechelics |
Multi-sticker |
Micelles |
Mixed networks |
Number of params |
3-5 |
7-8 |
4-6 |
4-5 |
2N+1 |
Relaxation spectrum |
Single mode |
Two modes |
Broad (N modes) |
Effective single |
Discrete (N) |
Key physics |
Bond lifetime |
Loop↔bridge |
Sticker-limited |
Scission/recomb |
Heterogeneity |
Recommended for |
Baseline, simple gels |
Telechelic ionomers |
Associating polymers |
Wormlike micelles |
Complex networks |
Force-dependence |
✓ (Bell/power) |
~ |
~ |
~ |
✓ (per species) |
Finite extensibility |
✓ (FENE-P) |
~ |
~ |
~ |
~ |
Computational cost |
1× (fastest) |
1.5× |
2-3× (modes) |
1× |
1.5-2.5× |
Decision Tree:
Is there a single dominant bond type?
Yes → TNTSingleMode (start here for most gels)
No, two distinct types → TNTLoopBridge or TNTMultiSpecies
Are bonds sensitive to force/stress?
Yes, exponential → TNTSingleMode(breakage=”bell”)
Yes, power-law → TNTSingleMode(breakage=”power_law”)
No → TNTSingleMode(breakage=”constant”)
Is chain extensibility important?
Yes (large strains) → TNTSingleMode(stress_type=”fene”)
No (linear/moderate) → stress_type=”hookean”
Is the material a living polymer system?
Yes, wormlike micelles → TNTCates
Yes, but multi-sticker → TNTStickyRouse
No → TNTSingleMode or TNTLoopBridge
Do you observe broad relaxation spectrum?
Yes, continuous → TNTStickyRouse
Yes, discrete peaks → TNTMultiSpecies
No, single mode → TNTSingleMode
Failure Modes¶
Each TNT variant has a characteristic failure mode — the dominant nonlinear phenomenon that limits the range of validity or produces extreme behavior:
Variant |
Primary Phenomenon |
Key Parameter |
Failure Mode |
Physical Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Shear thinning / banding |
\(\nu\) |
Runaway breakage |
Exponential bond weakening under stretch |
|
Strain stiffening |
\(L_{\max}\) |
Chain snap |
Stress divergence as chains approach maximum extension |
|
Concentration-dependent viscosity |
\(k_{LB}/k_{BL}\) |
Loop saturation |
All chains convert to loops under extreme flow |
|
Single-mode Maxwellian |
\(\tau_{\text{break}}\) |
Shear banding |
Non-monotonic flow curve from scission kinetics |
|
Self-similar relaxation |
\(N_{\text{stickers}}\) |
Terminal flow |
All stickers eventually release at long times |
|
Residual elasticity |
\(G_{\text{chem}}/G_{\text{phys}}\) |
Bond hierarchy |
Sequential failure from weakest to strongest bonds |
|
\(N_2 \neq 0\) |
\(\xi\) |
Wall slip |
Extreme non-affinity decouples chains from flow |
|
Shear thickening |
\(\alpha\) |
Gelation |
Runaway network formation under sustained deformation |
Feature Comparison Matrix¶
Predicted rheological features across all TNT variants (base Tanaka-Edwards plus 8 extensions). This matrix summarizes which nonlinear phenomena each variant can capture:
Feature |
Base TE |
Bell |
FENE |
NonAffine |
StretchCreate |
LoopBridge |
StickyRouse |
Cates |
MultiSpecies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shear thinning |
- |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
- |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Stress overshoot |
- |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
\(N_2 \neq 0\) |
- |
- |
- |
Yes |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Strain hardening |
- |
- |
Yes |
- |
Yes |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Higher harmonics |
- |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Shear thickening |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Yes |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Non-monotonic flow |
- |
(high \(\nu\)) |
- |
(high \(\xi\)) |
- |
- |
- |
Yes |
- |
Multi-mode spectrum |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
2 modes |
N modes |
- |
N modes |
Residual stress |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Yes |
Decision Framework¶
Three complementary decision trees help identify the best TNT variant. Use whichever matches your starting point:
Property-based (above, `Decision Tree`_): Start from known material class (e.g., “telechelic polymer” → LoopBridge). Best when the material type is known.
Observation-based (TNT Knowledge Extraction Guide, “Master Decision Tree”): Start from raw data features (e.g., “Cole-Cole plot is semicircular” → Cates). Best when you have data but are unsure of the material class.
Residual-based (TNT Knowledge Extraction Guide, “Iterative Refinement”): Start from a base fit and systematically add physics to reduce residuals (e.g., “startup overshoot too sharp” → add Bell breakage). Best when iterating on model fits.
Key Parameters¶
Parameter |
Symbol |
Typical Range |
Physical Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
Network modulus |
G |
1-10⁶ Pa |
Elastic modulus at short times (\(G \sim n k_B T\), n = crosslink density) |
Bond lifetime |
τ_b |
10⁻⁶-10⁴ s |
Mean survival time before bond detachment (sets relaxation time) |
Solvent viscosity |
η_s |
0-10⁴ Pa·s |
Background viscosity (can be zero for ideal network) |
Bell force sensitivity |
ν |
0.01-20 |
Dimensionless activation barrier reduction (ΔE = ν·k_B·T per unit force) |
FENE extensibility |
L_max |
2-100 |
Maximum chain stretch ratio (\(L_{\max}^2 \sim N_{\text{Kuhn}}\), chain stiffness) |
Slip parameter |
ξ |
0-1 |
Gordon-Schowalter: ξ=0 (affine), ξ=1 (full slip), affects N₁ |
Bridge fraction (eq) |
f_B_eq |
0-1 |
Equilibrium fraction of bridge junctions (LoopBridge model) |
Exchange rate |
k_ex |
10⁻⁴-10² s⁻¹ |
Loop↔bridge interconversion rate (LoopBridge) |
Sticker lifetime |
τ_s |
10⁻⁶-10⁴ s |
Mean sticker attachment time (StickyRouse, limits Rouse modes) |
Chain length |
N |
10-1000 |
Number of Kuhn segments (StickyRouse, sets \(\tau_{\text{Rouse}} \sim N^2\)) |
Reptation time |
τ_rep |
10⁻³-10³ s |
Tube escape time for entangled chains (Cates model) |
Breakage time |
τ_break |
10⁻³-10³ s |
Mean time for chain scission (Cates model, \(\tau_d \sim \sqrt{\tau_{\text{rep}} \cdot \tau_{\text{break}}}\)) |
Quick Start¶
Basic Tanaka-Edwards model (constant breakage):
from rheojax.models import TNTSingleMode
# Create model with default constant breakage
model = TNTSingleMode()
# Fit to oscillatory data (SAOS)
model.fit(omega, G_star, test_mode='oscillation')
# Check parameters
G = model.parameters.get_value('G')
tau_b = model.parameters.get_value('tau_b')
print(f"Network modulus: {G:.1f} Pa, Bond lifetime: {tau_b:.3f} s")
# Predict flow curve
gamma_dot = jnp.logspace(-2, 2, 50)
sigma = model.predict(gamma_dot, test_mode='flow_curve')
Force-dependent Bell model for bio-networks:
from rheojax.models import TNTSingleMode
# Bell model with force-activated unbinding
model = TNTSingleMode(breakage="bell")
# Set initial guesses for sensitive bonds
model.parameters.set_value('nu', 5.0) # Moderate force sensitivity
# Fit to startup shear data (shows force-induced softening)
model.fit(t, sigma_startup, test_mode='startup', gamma_dot=1.0)
FENE-P model for finite extensibility:
from rheojax.models import TNTSingleMode
# FENE-P with finite chain length
model = TNTSingleMode(stress_type="fene")
# Set extensibility limit
model.parameters.set_value('L_max', 10.0) # 10x equilibrium length
# Fit to large amplitude data (will show strain softening)
model.fit(gamma, sigma, test_mode='startup', gamma_dot=10.0)
Wormlike micelles (Cates model):
from rheojax.models import TNTCates
# Living polymer system
model = TNTCates()
# Fit to oscillatory data
model.fit(omega, G_star, test_mode='oscillation')
# Extract timescales
tau_rep = model.parameters.get_value('tau_rep')
tau_break = model.parameters.get_value('tau_break')
tau_d = jnp.sqrt(tau_rep * tau_break)
print(f"Effective relaxation: {tau_d:.3e} s")
Multi-sticker polymer (StickyRouse):
from rheojax.models import TNTStickyRouse
# Create model with 5 Rouse modes
model = TNTStickyRouse(n_modes=5)
# Fit to frequency sweep (broad spectrum)
model.fit(omega, G_star, test_mode='oscillation')
# Predict storage/loss moduli
G_prime, G_double_prime = model.predict(omega, test_mode='oscillation',
return_components=True)
Bayesian Inference¶
All TNT models support full Bayesian inference via NumPyro with automatic warm-starting from NLSQ point estimates. The recommended workflow uses 4 chains for robust diagnostics:
from rheojax.models import TNTSingleMode
import jax.numpy as jnp
# Step 1: NLSQ point estimate (fast, ~seconds)
model = TNTSingleMode(breakage="bell", stress_type="fene")
model.fit(omega, G_star, test_mode='oscillation')
# Step 2: Bayesian inference with warm-start (num_chains=4 default)
result = model.fit_bayesian(
omega, G_star,
test_mode='oscillation',
num_warmup=1000,
num_samples=2000,
num_chains=4, # Parallel chains for diagnostics
seed=42 # Reproducibility
)
# Step 3: Diagnostics (automatic R-hat, ESS checks)
intervals = model.get_credible_intervals(result.posterior_samples,
credibility=0.95)
for param_name, (lower, upper) in intervals.items():
point_est = model.parameters.get_value(param_name)
print(f"{param_name}: {point_est:.3e} [{lower:.3e}, {upper:.3e}]")
# Step 4: Posterior predictive checks
G_pred = model.predict(omega, test_mode='oscillation')
# Compare G_pred to G_star to validate model
ArviZ diagnostics for complex models:
from rheojax.pipeline.bayesian import BayesianPipeline
# Full pipeline with automated diagnostics
pipeline = BayesianPipeline()
(pipeline
.load('gel_data.csv', x_col='omega', y_col='G_star')
.fit_nlsq('tnt_single_mode', breakage='bell')
.fit_bayesian(num_warmup=1000, num_samples=2000, num_chains=4)
.plot_trace() # MCMC convergence
.plot_pair(divergences=True) # Parameter correlations
.plot_forest(hdi_prob=0.95) # Credible intervals
.save('results.hdf5'))
# Check specific diagnostics
print(f"R-hat: {pipeline.get_diagnostic('r_hat')}")
print(f"ESS: {pipeline.get_diagnostic('ess')}")
Supported Protocols¶
All TNT models support the full suite of rheological test protocols:
Protocol |
test_mode |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Flow curve |
‘flow_curve’ |
Steady shear stress σ(γ̇), shear thinning from network disruption |
SAOS (oscillatory) |
‘oscillation’ |
\(G'(\omega)\), \(G''(\omega)\), single-mode shows \(G' \sim G'' \sim \omega^2\) at low \(\omega\) |
Startup shear |
‘startup’ |
Transient σ(t, γ̇), stress overshoot from chain orientation |
Stress relaxation |
‘relaxation’ |
G(t) after step strain, exponential decay with τ_b |
Creep |
‘creep’ |
γ(t, σ₀), delayed compliance from bond reformation |
LAOS |
‘laos’ |
Large amplitude σ(t), Fourier/Chebyshev harmonics |
Protocol-specific features:
Flow curve: Shear thinning η(γ̇) from reduced effective τ_b at high rates
SAOS: \(G'(\omega)\) crossover at \(\omega \approx 1/\tau_b\), \(\tan(\delta) = G''/G'\) diagnostic
Startup: Overshoot at γ ≈ 1-2 (network orientation saturation)
Relaxation: Single exponential \(G(t) \sim \exp(-t/\tau_b)\) for constant breakage
Creep: Power-law at short times, viscous flow at long times
LAOS: Strain softening (I₃/I₁ ratio) from FENE-P or Bell kinetics
Example multi-protocol characterization:
from rheojax.models import TNTSingleMode
import jax.numpy as jnp
model = TNTSingleMode(breakage="bell", stress_type="fene")
# 1. Fit to SAOS for linear parameters
model.fit(omega, G_star, test_mode='oscillation')
# 2. Predict startup for validation
t = jnp.linspace(0, 10, 200)
sigma_startup = model.predict(t, test_mode='startup', gamma_dot=1.0)
# 3. Flow curve for nonlinear regime
gamma_dot = jnp.logspace(-3, 2, 50)
sigma_flow = model.predict(gamma_dot, test_mode='flow_curve')
# 4. Relaxation modulus
G_t = model.predict(t, test_mode='relaxation', gamma_0=0.1)
Model Documentation¶
- TNT Protocol Equations — Shared Reference
- TNT Knowledge Extraction Guide
- TNT Tanaka-Edwards (Basic Transient Network) — Handbook
- TNT Bell (Force-Dependent Breakage) — Handbook
- TNT FENE-P (Finite Extensibility) — Handbook
- TNT Non-Affine (Gordon-Schowalter) — Handbook
- TNT Stretch-Creation (Enhanced Reformation) — Handbook
- TNT Loop-Bridge (Two-Species Kinetics) — Handbook
- TNT Sticky Rouse (Multi-Mode Sticker Dynamics) — Handbook
- TNT Cates (Living Polymers / Wormlike Micelles) — Handbook
- TNT Multi-Species (Multiple Bond Types) — Handbook
See Also¶
Related Model Families:
Giesekus Nonlinear Viscoelastic Models — Polymer kinetic theory with continuous relaxation
Fluidity Models — Yield stress fluids with fluidity evolution
DMT Thixotropic Models — Thixotropic models with scalar structure parameter
Maxwell (Classical) — Single Maxwell mode (TNT limit with Hookean chains)
Transforms and Utilities:
Mastercurve (Time-Temperature Superposition) — Time-temperature superposition for thermorheology
/transforms/derivatives — Numerical differentiation for \(G(t)\) → \(G'\), \(G''\)
/utils/prony — Prony series decomposition for multi-mode fitting
User Guides:
/user_guide/transient_networks — Introduction to TNT physics
/user_guide/associating_polymers — Telechelic and multi-sticker systems
/user_guide/living_polymers — Wormlike micelles and scission/recombination
References¶
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Bell, G. I. (1978). “Models for the specific adhesion of cells to cells.” Science, 200, 618–627. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.347575
Cates, M. E. (1987). “Reptation of living polymers: dynamics of entangled polymers in the presence of reversible chain-scission reactions.” Macromolecules, 20, 2289–2296. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma00175a038
Leibler, L., Rubinstein, M., & Colby, R. H. (1991). “Dynamics of reversible networks.” Macromolecules, 24, 4701–4707. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma00016a034
Vaccaro, A. & Marrucci, G. (2000). “A model for the nonlinear rheology of associating polymers.” J. Non-Newtonian Fluid Mech., 92, 261–273. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0377-0257(00)00095-1
Tripathi, A., Tam, K. C., & McKinley, G. H. (2006). “Rheology and dynamics of associative polymers in shear and extension: Theory and experiments.” Macromolecules, 39, 1981–1999. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma051614x
Rubinstein, M. & Semenov, A. N. (2001). “Dynamics of entangled solutions of associating polymers.” Macromolecules, 34, 1058–1068. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma0013049
Semenov, A. N. & Rubinstein, M. (1998). “Thermoreversible gelation in solutions of associative polymers. 1. Statics.” Macromolecules, 31, 1373–1385. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma970616h
Wang, S.-Q. (1992). “Transient network theory for shear-thickening fluids and physically crosslinked networks.” Macromolecules, 25, 7003–7010. https://doi.org/10.1021/ma00051a043
Vernerey, F.J. (2018). “Transient response of nonlinear polymer networks: A kinetic theory.” J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 115, 230–247. DOI: 10.1016/j.jmps.2018.02.018
PDFWagner, R.J., Hobbs, E., & Vernerey, F.J. (2021). “A network model of transient polymers: exploring the micromechanics of nonlinear viscoelasticity.” Soft Matter, 17, 8742–8757. DOI: 10.1039/d1sm00753j
PDFVernerey, F.J. (2022). “Mechanics of transient semi-flexible networks: Soft-elasticity, stress relaxation and remodeling.” J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 160, 104776. DOI: 10.1016/j.jmps.2022.104776
PDFLamont, S. & Vernerey, F.J. (2022). “A Transient Microsphere Model for Nonlinear Viscoelasticity in Dynamic Polymer Networks.” J. Appl. Mech., 89, 011009. DOI: 10.1115/1.4052375
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