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Soft matter: rubber and networks.

Gregory B McKenna1,2

  • 1Department of Chemical Engineering, Whitacre College of Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-3121, United States of America.

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|April 20, 2018
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Summary

This review explores the thermodynamics of polymer networks and gels, crucial for materials like rubber tires and contact lenses. It highlights the validity of continuum thermodynamics while noting the need for further molecular understanding of entropic gels.

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Area of Science:

  • Polymer Science
  • Materials Science
  • Thermodynamics

Background:

  • Rubber networks are fundamental to diverse materials, including tires, super absorbents, and contact lenses.
  • Understanding rubber deformation thermodynamics, particularly entropy, is key to utilizing these materials effectively.
  • Swollen rubber networks form soft, gel-like materials, expanding their application range.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the thermodynamics of polymer networks and gels.
  • To examine the relationship between continuum thermodynamics and molecular underpinnings.
  • To discuss various network types, including entropic polymer networks and physical gels.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of the strain energy density function from thermodynamic and mechanical perspectives.
  • Review of experimental results validating continuum thermodynamic concepts.
  • Exploration of molecular bases for network behavior, especially in swollen systems.

Main Results:

  • Continuum thermodynamic ideas are experimentally validated for polymer networks and gels.
  • The molecular basis for some thermodynamic behaviors, particularly in entropic gels, requires further elucidation.
  • Physical gels, including thermoplastic and colloidal systems, exhibit spinodal-like decomposition behavior.

Conclusions:

  • The thermodynamics of polymer networks and gels provide a robust framework for material design.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the molecular mechanisms governing entropic gels.
  • Diverse physical gel systems share similar network formation behaviors, offering avenues for new material development.