Systems approach for the design of polymeric structures

The design of polymeric structures involves many interdependent factors. Among the more important of these are material properties characterization, load definition, environmental conditions, stress analysis, and failure criteria. Each of these factors can be considered as an element in a system. Characterization of interactions between these elements is often difficult since many of these elements represent areas where complete understanding is lacking and research is continuing. A general framework is presented here for assessing this system. Particular deficiencies and assumptions of individual elements are discussed as they pertain to this approach. The final product of this system is a probability of failure with time prediction. This service life prediction is accomplished by assessing chemical aging effects in terms of engineering parameters through a structure-properties accelerated aging model.