Conformational properties of stretched polyethylene chain

When polyethylene chains are stretched, the chains are regarded as being confined in an infinite cylinder with decreasing diameter. The conformational properties of polyethylene chains confined in an infinite cylinder are investigated by using rotational isomeric state model. Using the average conformational energy and entropy and the average length, we can determine the elastic force f, or the fraction of the energy term to the total forcee/f where fe = partial less than or equal U >/ partial less than or equal r > and f = partial less than or equal A > / partial less than or equal r >. Comparisons with experimental data are also made. The results of these microscopic calculations are discussed in terms of the macroscopic phenomena of rubber elasticity.