| heal.abstract |
The viscoelastic stress (σ)-strain (ε) relationship of broiler gastrocnemius tendon can be described by the phenomenological model σ = Eε + Cε(1+P) + L(δε/δt)(K) ε(d). Model parameters E, C and p describe the elastic behavior while parameters L, K, and d describe viscous behavior. The model is developed specifically for the initial nonlinear region of the loading curve, the accepted region of normal tendon performance. Changes in the linear and nonlinear elastic parameters E and C have the potential to relate to changes in the crimp and structure of collagen fibers. However, the effects due to C may be more predominant since this parameter reflects the nonlinear behavior of the toe region. Viscous effects tend to be nonlinear at low strain rates and to increase in linearity as strain rate increases. Also, viscous effects are dependent on both strain rate and applied strain. During normal physiological function, tendons are loaded at high strain rates but these rates are difficult to mimic in in vitro testing. This model could be used to predict the function of tendon at these high strain rates and could help identify undesirable loading conditions. |
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