Theory of dilute polymer solutions in viscoelastic fluid with a single relaxation time (Q798101)

Rheological equations of state of dilute polymer solutions in a viscoelastic fluid with one relaxation time (the Maxwell-type fluid) are derived from structural considerations. To this end, the subchain model representing a linear sequence of frictional centres and spherical Brownian particles bonded by means of elastic forces is used throughout the paper. The resulting macroscopic equations are applied to the case of oscillatory shearing flows and the corresponding expressions for the complex viscosity and relaxation times presented. The results obtained in the paper are also used to explain the mechanism of relaxation processes in more concentrated polymer solutions and melts.