The mechanical properties of elastomers with chemical and physical junctions

Abstract

Theoretical model of the mechanical properties of elastomer network with thermoreversible junctions have been obtained on the basis of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and physical kinetics methods. Non-Gaussian assumption for a free energy of chains in the equilibrium state have been used. As was established, the posisbility of construction of the tearing master-curve is determined by the energy of junctions. If the energy of junctions is less then 60 kJ/mol the time-temperature superposition principle contravenes and anomalous large fracture work is observed. It was found that ultimate tensile strength versus junctions energy curve has a maximum. Thus, an optimal value of junctions energy exists.