Semi‐ and fully interpenetrating polymer networks based on polyurethane–polyacrylate systems. XI. The influence of polymerization temperature on morphology and properties

Polyurethane–poly(methyl acrylate) interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) of fixed composition (50/50) were prepared at 200 MPa and a range of temperatures. Decreased synthesis temperatures generally resulted in improved mixing of the two networks, although the sequence of formation of the two polymers was also important. No obvious improvements in physical properties resulted from the enhanced mixing. At high synthesis temperatures, the exothermic heat of polymerization of the methyl acrylate led to excessive temperatures, capable of degrading the already‐formed polyurethane network. This resulted in a deterioration in tensile strength and a decrease in hardness of the IPN.