Simultaneous and Gradient IPN of PolyurethaneVinyl Ester Resin : Morphology and Mechanical Properties

Abstract EN

A series of polyurethane (PU) and vinyl ester resin (VER) simultaneous and gradient interpenetrating polymer networks (represented as s-IPN and g-IPN, resp.) curing at room temperature were prepared by changing the component ratios of PU or VER in s-IPN, time intervals, and component ratio sequences of s-IPN in g-IPN.

The microstructures of s-IPN and g-IPN were detected by atomic force microscope (AFM), dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA), and surface constitution scanning of nitrogen element of energy dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDX), respectively.

The mechanical properties of s-IPN and g-IPN were studied by values in strain-stress curves detected by electronic multipurpose tester.

The results indicated that the morphology and mechanical properties are both affected by PU/VER component ratios in s-IPN, gradient time intervals, and gradient component ratio sequences.

Furthermore, the morphology detection by EDX and mechanical properties study both proved the formation of gradient structures in transition regions of g-IPN.