Interpenetrating polymer networks are combinations of two or more polymer networks that are at least partly interlocked on a molecular scale without being covalently joined [1]. Each network is synthesised or crosslinked in the presence of the other, so the two are entangled and cannot be separated without breaking chemical bonds [1]. The morphology is set by the relative rates of network formation and by the compatibility of the components, which decide whether the phases stay co-continuous or separate into domains [2]. Because the networks carry no bonds between them, the material is classed as a polymer blend rather than a copolymer [3]. Swelling in a common solvent is limited by the elastic restraint each network imposes on the other [2].
- interpenetrating network
- sequential polymerisation
- co-continuous morphology
- physical interlock
- ipn
Synthesis and properties of polymers·Polymers and Plastics·Materials Science·Physical Sciences
References
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- Farooq, U.; Teuwen, J.; Dransfeld, C. Toughening of Epoxy Systems with Interpenetrating Polymer Network (IPN): A Review. Polymers 2020, 12, 1908. [CrossRef]