Rubber elasticity of polymer networks in explicitly non-Gaussian states. Statistical mechanics and LF-NMR inquiry in hydrogel systems
We present a statistical mechanics theory of rubber-like elasticity in swollen and unswollen polymer networks characterized by explicitly non-Gaussian distribution functions (Laplace's, Cauchy's, and continuous Poisson's in the exponential limit). An important outcome is the derivation of new families of statistical and mechanical laws, including a discussion of energy functions of strain invarian