Block Copolymer-Based Thermoset Nanocomposites

摘要

Amphiphilic block copolymers have been added to two-part epoxy resin and cured leading to well-defined nanocomposites. Reactive and non-reactive polar blocks were coupled to non-polar hydrocarbon blocks using anionic and living free-radical polymerization techniques. Mixtures containing 0 to 100% block copolymer were investigated for structure by small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy, and for mechanical properties by compact tension testing. Spherical micelles and vesicles were documented at low block concentrations, and these nanocomposites exhibit enhanced fracture toughness. Chemical bond formation between the matrix and block copolymer leads to some improvement in toughness.