Abstract
The contribution of entanglements to the modulus of a time independent polymer is satisfactorily accounted for by the C2/λ term in the Mooney-Rivlin equation. On the other hand, the role of entanglements in time dependent polymers is less evident and seems to give rise to a non-linear Mooney plot. A model is introduced which considers an entanglement as a topological knot that tightens with initial deformation and subsequently inhibits chain slippage. The observed maximum in a Mooney plot at small values of λ is predicted, and the experimental data of plasticised PVC polybutadiene and styrenebutadiene copolymer are fitted reasonably well.
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