Epoxy/acrylic simultaneous interpenetrating networks

Abstract

Abstract Simultaneous interpenetrating networks were prepared by simultaneously synthesizing crosslinked epoxy and poly (n‐butyl acrylate) polymers. A two‐phase morphology emerged, with the dispersed rubber domains being of the order of 0.1–0.2 m̈ in size. The actual dimensions of the dispersed phase, and the extent of molecular mixing between the two networks, depends on the relative rates of polymerization, or the gelation time. The minimum domain size and greatest molecular mixing occurs when the closest approach to simultaneity is attained. Spherical rather than elongated rubber domains yield the greatest toughening of the epoxy when the domains are smaller than optimum.