Stress-Strain Data for Vulcanized Rubber under Various Types of Deformation

Stress-strain data are given for two types of vulcanized rubber: (1) an 8% S rubber, and (2) a latex rubber. The types of deformation studied were simple elongation, 2-dimensional extension (or compression), pure shear, and combined elongation and shear. Comparison with the theoretical relations based on the molecular-network model shows the agreement to be good for the 2-dimensional extension, but less good for simple elongation and shear. The effect of combined elongation and shear is satisfactorily accounted for. It is concluded that the theory provides a satisfactory explanation of rubberlike elasticity, and forms a useful basis for the description of the mechanical properties of rubber subjected to large deformations of any type.