Structure of natural rubber as revealed by X-ray and neutron scattering

Abstract X-ray and neutron scattering belong to principal tools in the investigation of structure and dynamics of materials. This chapter resumes information on structural aspects important on various length scales in natural rubber and its products revealed by various methods of X-ray and neutron scattering. Principles of scattering theory and scattering functions important for the analysis of the systems based on natural rubber are reviewed. Experimental determination of key structural parameters such as degree of crystallinity, polymer network mesh size, correlation lengths, fractal dimensions, and so on is also discussed. Results obtained from natural rubber that is uncrosslinked, crosslinked or filled by various types of nanofillers are compared and reviewed.