Stretching globular polymers. II. Macroscopic cross-linked networks

We expand upon the results for the force-extension behavior of single-colla sed polymer chains to consider the mechanical response of networks of cross-linked globular polymers in poor solvent. Force-strain curves are obtained under the affine deformation approximation for networked globules with both disordered and ordered globule conformations. Due to their large stored lengths, these networks would be capable of reaching extremely large strains. They also show anomalous nonmonotonic force-strain response, as a consequence of the nonmonotonic force-extension curves of their constituent globules. Finally, we consider the stability of ordered and disordered globules in these networks and propose means taken from biological and colloid science to stabilize networked globules. (c) 2005 American Institute of Physics.