Non‐gaussian elasticity of composite and interpenetrating networks

Abstract

AbstractThe elastic behavior of composite and interpenetrating network structures composed of non‐Gaussian chains is investigated. The chain probability density given by Nagai is employed utilizing only the leading correction terms for finite chain extensibility. The independent‐network hypothesis, proven valid in Gaussian statistics, is shown to be erroneous in non‐Gaussian systems. Further, it is found that composite networks composed of monodisperse chains are elastically isotropic, whereas a most probable contourlength distribution yields a large anisotropy but in the direction opposite to that observed experimentally for rubber. On the other hand, retention of the independent‐network hypothesis coupled with a most probable distribution successfully accounts for much of the observed anisotropy. Interpenetrating networks are shown to be substantially anisotropic when a most probable contour‐length distribution is employed.