Interpenetrating Polymer Networks

Abstract Besides mechanical blending and copolymerization there is a third possible way in which two polymers can be combined. Each polymer forms its own network, while both networks interpenetrate each other. There are no covalent bonds between the polymers. Such interpenetrating networks have been synthesized sequentially (from polymer A and monomer B) and simultaneously (from monomer A and monomer B). It is preferable that the polymers be of different chemical type; usually, an elastomer and a glass are combined, e.g. a polyurethane and a polyacrylate. Depending upon the ratio of component polymers either a strengthened elastomer or a glass having impact strength is formed. So far, there are no direct methods for establishing the degree of interpenetration.