Molecular rheology of polymer solutions: Interpretation and utility

Abstract

Molecular theories of polymer rheology are reviewed with emphasis on predictions of the more familiar properties: non‐Newtonian viscosity and normal stress in steady shear, complex viscosity in oscillatory shear, and elongational viscosity in extensional flow. Both dilute and concentrated solutions are discussed, with emphasis on the former. An important objective is clarification of polymer modeling strategies and how they are related to polymer structure. The intended readership consists of those engineers familiar in a general way with continuum polymer rheology, but with no special expertise in polymer physical or theoretical chemistry.