Intermolecular interaction in polymers and the physical network model

The current views on the nature of the intermolecular interaction and the interchain organisation of polymers in the rubber-elastic state are described. The possibility of representing the system of intermolecular interactions by an infinite network of physical links (the physical network model) is considered. Polymeric physical networks are compared with associated species formed in low-molecular-mass organic compounds containing localised intermolecular interaction centres. The principal physical properties of polymers are analysed on the basis of the physical network model. The bibliography includes 280 references.