However, in the rubbery state of the matrix
(T > Tg), elasticity is dominated by the entropy effects rather
than elemental bond stiffness [1–3]. In this regime a first level
of reinforcement is ‘‘hydrodynamical’’ in origin and can be
achieved with dispersed nanoparticles.
In the second level of reinforcement filler–matrix and filler–filler interactions play an important role in the mechanical properties of filled elastomers due to the increase in cross-link density and the occlusion of a certain amount of the elastomeric matrix by filler
aggregates