Molecular aspects of rubber elasticity

Abstract

In this paper, the molecular aspects of rubber-like solids are reviewed. The elasticity of the single polymer chain, which is the basic unit of the elastomeric solid, is discussed first. The structure of the network obtained by joining the single chains together is described. The elementary and more advanced theories of rubber elasticity are discussed. Swelling of networks, thermoelastic behavior, strain-induced crystallization and bioelastomers are reviewed.