Elastomers: From Theory to Applications

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue focuses on the current state-of-the-art of elastomers, both in modern applications and from a theoretical perspective. The main characteristic of elastomer materials is the high elongation and (entropy) elasticity of these materials, and the ability to swell multiple times in a suitable solvent. The use of filled elastomers, especially of new kinds of elastomer nanocomposites, is of high interest for rubber technologies. Nanostructured adaptable gels allow tailoring of responsive materials or filtering systems. These materials enable widespread applications in engineering fields, ranging from modern tire technologies to medical applications and consumer goods. Elastomers also find utility in a range of biomaterial applications. Bioelastomers are widely available in nature, and have been shown to have specific properties often far superior to their synthetic counterparts. All elastomers share typical features, such as entropy-driven elasticity, the presence of entanglements, and topological constraints of network chain conformations. These features still offer fascinating scientific challenges in synthesis, characterization, and application, as well as for the theory of polymer networks and the modeling of elastomeric solids.

Papers are sought that discuss the latest research in the area or summarize selected areas in the field. The scope of the Special Issue encompasses frontier-of-science contributions in synthesis, characterization, modeling, and the theory of elastomers. Of particular interest are new structures and functionalities incorporated into elastomers, leading to enhanced properties of crosslinked elastomeric materials. Examples include conductive elastomers, mechanically adaptive elastomers, bioelastomers, photosensitive and light-controlled elastomers, elastomers with autonomous self-healing properties, and other novel elastomer-based materials.

Prof. Dr. Gert Heinrich
Dr. Michael Lang
Guest Editors

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