Elasticity of Rubbery Networks in the Region of Zero Strain

Abstract

Abstract 1. Contrary to the widely held view of linearity through the origin of the Gaussian stress-strain plot (σ versus (Λ − Λ−2)), there does exist a curvature in the plot around the region of zero strain though the plot is continuous to the origin. 2. The inability of the Mooney-Rivlin expression to describe accurately the behavior of rubbery networks in the region of zero strain is not indicative of non-Gaussian character of the network, nor can it be ascribed to entanglements, or supramolecular organization in the network.