Polyelectrolyte Networks: Elasticity, Swelling, and the Violation of the Flory-Rehner Hypothesis

Abstract This paper discusses the elastic behaviour of polyelectrolyte networks. The deformation behaviour of single polyelectrolyte chains is discussed. It is shown that a strong coupling between interactions and chain elasticity exists. The theory of the complete crosslinked networks shows that the Flory-Rehner Hypothesis (FRH) does not hold. The modulus contains contributions from the classical rubber elasticity and from the electrostatic interactions. The equilibrium degree of swelling is estimated by the assumption of a c∗-network.