Method of cross-linking poly(ethylene oxide) and polyoxymethylene- oligo(oxyethylene) with ultraviolet radiation

摘要

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly[oxymethylene- oligo(oxyethylene)] (PEM) disks are cross-linked by exposure to UV radiation. The rate of formation of cross-links is greatly enhanced by the presence of benzophenone, and an average cross-link density of up to 6 mol% of ethoxy units can be obtained after irradiation. The highly cross-linked polymers are insoluble in water or organic solvents and show improved physical properties for handling and the formation of free- standing films. Dynamic modulus measurements and polymer swelling are employed to characterize the polymers. Dynamic modulus measurements show that, upon irradiation, PEO and PEM become cross-linked elastomeric solids.