THE FORMATION AND PROPERTIES OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL POLYMERS: I. STATISTICS OF NETWORK POLYMERS

Abstract

Theoretical treatments of the elastic and swelling properties of three-dimensional polymers are reviewed and the predicted influence of network structure discussed. An expression is obtained for the statistically most probable distribution of molecular weight for polymers terminated by chain transfer with a modifier. Depletion of modifier does not lead to a large increase in molecular heterogeneity. The formation of an insoluble fraction and the development of cyclic structures when such polymers are subjected to cross-linking conditions are treated by an application of the theory of gelation.