Reinforcement of elastomeric networks by fillers

A better molecular understanding of the mechanisms involved in rubber reinf orcement can be obtained by combining a characterization of the mechanical behavior with an analysis of chain segmental orientation accompanying defor mation. While the strain dependence of the stress is the most common quanti ty to assess the effect of filler addition, experimental determination of s egmental orientation is particularly informative for quantifying the intera ctions between polymer and filler particles. The results point out the impo rtance of the interfacial interactions between the matrix and inclusions.