| Summary: | A 2nd order non-linear elastic material has been successfully modeled as a 2-layered spherical shell bonded to a rigid core. Based on this model, the mechanical state described by 5 elastic parameters, λ, μ, l, m, and n is investigated. These parameters can be numerically manipulated to give desired properties for various functions. An application requiring minimal swelling of the bio-gel can be optimised by making the l and n values positive, while decreasing µ, l, m and n. On the other hand, an application requiring maximum swelling can be optimised by increasing λ and µ, while decreasing l and m.
A spherical gel with no core has been found to be radially and tangentially stress free in both its linear and non-linear capacities. Its displacement, independent of the elastic parameters, is a function of only the thermal properties and radial position. This is compared to the case of a spherical shell bonded to a rigid core, which has non-zero stresses. This implies that the presence of a rigid core act as a constraint to the material.
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