We consider three key issues in this study for low modulus webs. First, transport in the high strain region is considered when the materials exhibit nonlinear and viscoelastic behavior. Second, in-plane biaxial strain is considered in the development of the governing equation for web strain in the transport direction. Governing equations for web strain and tension are developed and evaluated using parameter sensitivity analysis and both time and frequency domain computer simulations under typical scenarios of transport and machine and environment induced disturbing forces. Third, the effect of moisture and heat diffusion in fibrous and porous non-woven webs on longitudinal web strain is considered. Moisture and heat diffusion is studied using known non-Fickian models which better represent the diffusion behavior in porous, fibrous materials.Mechanical and Aerospace Engineerin
