Effect of spatial constraints on phase separation during polymerization in sequential semi-interpenetrating polymer networks

The viscoelastic properties of sequential semi-interpenetrating polymer networks prepared via the swelling of network polyurethane in different monomers (butyl methacrylate, styrene) followed by their polymerization in the polyurethane matrix have been studied by means of dynamic mechanical analysis. It is found that the relaxation behavior of the test systems and the degree of segregation of the components depends on M _c of the polyurethane matrix because of a change in the molecular mass of the polymer block. The compatibility of the components in sequential semi-interpenetrating polymer networks substantially increases when the network inner space in the polyurethane matrix decreases.