Toward understanding the cross-linking from molecular chains to
aggregates by engineering terminals of supramolecular hyperbranched
polysiloxane
Abstract
Crosslinking thermosets with hyperbranched polymers confers them
superior comprehensive performance. However, it still remains a further
understanding of polymer crosslinking from the molecular chains to the
role of aggregates. In this study, three hyperbranched polysiloxane
structures (HBPSi-R) are synthesized as model macromolecules, each
featuring distinct terminal groups (R denotes amino, epoxy, and vinyl
groups) while similar molecular backbone (Si-O-C). These structures were
subsequently copolymerized with epoxy monomers to construct
interpenetrating HBPSi-R/epoxy/anhydride co-polymer systems. The spatial
molecular configuration and flexible Si-O-C branches of HBPSi-R endow
them with remarkable reinforcement and toughening effects. Notably, an
optimum impact strength of 28.9 kJ mol-1 is achieved with a mere 3%
loading of HBPSi-V, nearly three times that of the native epoxy (12.9 kJ
mol-1). By contrasting the terminal effects, the aggregation states and
crosslinking modes were proposed, thus clarifying the
supramolecular-dominant aggregation mechanism and covalent-dominant
dispersion mechanism, which influences the resulting material
properties. This work underscores the significance of aggregate science
in comprehending polymer crosslinking and provides theoretical insights
for tailoring material properties at a refined molecular level in the
field of polymer science.