The range of applications of epoxy matrix composites where they are exposed to elevated temperatures
is increasing. It is well-known that polymers are not linear elastic materials and their response to loads
is time and loading rate dependent. The main phenomena responsible for this type of behavior are
viscoelasticity (VE) and viscoplasticity (VP). In order to develop multiscale predictive tools for
simulations in nonlinear VE and VP formulation, adequate constitutive models have to be introduced
and methodology suggested for determination of material functions in these models. Therefore, a good
understanding of the effect of elevated temperature on long-term, time-dependent behavior and model
development that is based on physically sound and consistent experimental methodology is of
paramount significance
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