Models for composition dependence of elastic modulus of particulate filled polymers inherently assume modulus of the matrix independent of particle content and size. In this letter, experimental evidence is presented for existence of a critical particle size below which elastic modulus of the matrix becomes strongly dependent on the particle content due to the extensive chain stiffening. It is also suggested that below the critical particle size, specific interface area should replace volume fraction as the structural variable. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.