Localization Model of Rubber Elasticity and the Deformation a Network Formed by Cross-Linking a Strained Melt.

摘要

The localization model of rubber elasticity is applied to the deformation behavior of a network formed by cross-linking a strained melt. Recently, Kramer et al. made an important study of the effect of interactions between chains on the equilibrium elasticity of cross-linked networks. An uncross-linked melt was isothermally stretched and then held at a constant strain at a temperature above its Tg. The stress was allowed to relax until the plateau region was reached. The sample was then quenched below Tg and cross-linked. It was then reheated to the original temperature and after some time to a still higher temperature to accelerate relaxation. Finally, the sample was cooled back to the original temperature. The final force was found to be within 7% of the value measured in the plateau region prior to cross-linking.