Reinforcement of elastomeric networks by fillers

Although numerous investigations have been devoted to the analysis of filled systems, the mechanisms of the reinforcement have not been completely clarified. The present paper attempts to recall, through new experimental data, some of the basic mechanisms of filler reinforcement. The basic processes giving rise to the increase in the elastic modulus, generally observed by a filler addition in an elastomeric medium, are discussed in the light of mechanical measurements and of recent results based on measurements of chain orientation.