Sequential interpenetrating polymer network of poly(ethyl methacrylate) and carboxylated nitrile rubber: Dynamic mechanical analysis and morphology

An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) based on poly(ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA) and carboxylated nitrile rubber was synthesized. Peroxide crosslinked XNBR was swollen in ethyl methacrylate containing benzoyl peroxide as initiator and tetraethylene glycol dimethacrylate as crosslinking agent. A full and sequential IPN is formed by the two independently crosslinked phases of XNBR and PEMA. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the 50/50 XNBR/PEMA IPN shows a single, broad peak whereas a 50/50 blend shows two distinct peaks, indicating the pinning down of a microheterogeneous structure during the IPN formation rather that macrophase separation as in blends. SEM analysis confirms the development of a cocontinuous intimate structure of the IPN.