COMPUTER-SIMULATIONS OF 2-DIMENSIONAL TRIFUNCTIONAL BIMODAL NETWORKS

Transformation of mean chain dimensions in a bimodal Gaussian network is analyzed by generating a two-dimensional trifunctional network using Monte Carlo technique and deforming it, subject to the balance of mean forces at each junction. Instantaneous fluctuations in chain dimensions are not considered in the simulations. The problem is, therefore, equivalent to the analysis of a two-dimensional deterministic system of two sets, short and long, of linear springs, joined at trifunctional junctions. The molecular deformation of network chains, the distribution of orientation of chain vectors and the reduced stresses are studied as a function of extension ratio and network topology.