Indentation-cutting simulation on amorphous polymers

Case for PE, PS and PET

Abstract

Indentation cutting are performed on amorphous PP, PE, PS, and PET with a rigid Fe tool by molecular dynamics simulation. Amorphous blocks or “work” are made by randomly growing molecular chains and compressing them with elastic walls. During indentation, the amorphous work bent in V shape, and doesn’t show remarkable reaction force against the Fe tool. Molecular chains of PET and PE are straightened just below the cutting edge, while those of PP and PS keeps rounded shape due to side group of CH3 and C6H6.