New interpenetrating polymer networks based on uralkyd-poly(butyl methacrylate)

A study on two-component semi- and full-interpenetrating polymer networks ( IPNs) of soyabean-oil based uralkyd resin (UA) and poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) synthesized by a sequential technique, has been conducted. The IPNs obtained are characterized with respect to their mechanical properties, su ch as tensile strength, percentage elongation and hardness (Shore A). Phase morphology has been studied by scanning electron microscopy. Glass transit ion studies have been carried out using differential scanning calorimetry. The thermal characterization of the IPNs was undertaken with the aid of the rmogravimetric analysis. The apparent densities of these samples have been determined and are compared. The effect of the compositional variation on t he above-mentioned properties was examined. The tensile strength exhibits a sudden rise (approximately three-fold) for the semi- and full-IPNs with co mposition UA: PBMA 40%:60% compared with the UA:PBMA composition of 20%:40% . (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.