We employ a mathematical model to analyze stress chains in thermoplastic
elastomers (TPEs) with a microphase-separated spherical structure composed of
triblock copolymers. The model represents stress chains during uniaxial and
biaxial extensions using networks of spherical domains connected by bridges. We
advance previous research and discuss permanent strain and other aspects of the
network. It explores the dependency of permanent strain on the extension
direction, using the average of tension tensors to represent isotropic material
behavior. The concept of deviation angle is introduced to measure network
anisotropy and is shown to play an essential role in predicting permanent
strain when a network is extended in a specific direction. The paper also
discusses methods to create a new network structure using various polymers.Comment: 24 pages, 35 figure