Molecular Weight Dependent Kernels in Generalized Mixing Rules

Abstract

In this paper, a model is proposed for the kernel in the generalized mixing rule recently formulated by Anderssen and Mead (1998). In order to derive such a model, it is necessary to take account of the rheological significance of the kernel in terms of the relaxation behaviour of the individual polymers involved. This leads naturally to consider a way how additional physical effects, which depend on the molecular weight distribution, can be included in the mixing rule. The advantage of this approach is that, without changing the generality derived by Anderssen and Mead (1998), the choice of the model proposed here for the kernel guarantees the enhanced physical and rheological significance of their mixing rule.