Synthesis, rheology, and physical properties of a metathesis polymer

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes the synthesis, physical properties, and the impact modification of poly( N ‐phenylnorbornene dicarboximide) (PNDI). Impact modification is carried out both by physical blending with acrylonitrile‐butadiene rubber (Hycar®) and by in situ metathesis polymerization of the monomer with the rubber. Better success is achieved by in situ metathesis polymerization. A copolymer, poly( N ‐phenylnorbornene dicarboximide) ‐ co ‐poly(norbornene nitrile) containing Hycar rubber (PNDI/PNN/Hycar), is prepared with a good balance of high‐heat impact and flexural properties. The melt viscoelastic behavior of PNDI/PNN/Hycar is evaluated and the energy of activation for viscous flow ( E a ) was found to be 42 kcal/mol. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.