The reinforcement of elastomeric networks by fillers

The mechanisms involved in rubber reinforcement are discussed. A better molecular understanding of these mechanisms can be obtained by combining characterization of the mechanical behavior with an analysis of the chain segmental orientation accompanying deformation. While the strain dependence of the stress is the most common quantity used to assess the effect of filler addition, experimental determination of seamental orientation can be used to quantify the interfacial interactions between the elastomeric matrix and the mineral inclusions.