Phase transitions in nonelectrolyte cross-linked polymer gels under deformation

The results of the studies of the swelling of nonelectrolyte cross-linked polymers, published during the last 50 years, are summarized and analyzed. The phase diagrams of gels and the pulsation mechanism of phase separation in these systems are considered. The experimental data and theoretical notions on the thermodynamic stability of polymer gels and phase transitions in the gels under deformation are described.