Synthesis and Elucidation of Structure-property Relationship of Polymer Model Networks

Abstract

Cross-linked polymers such as rubber and gel contain various structural defects in their three-dimensional polymer network because of the uncontrolled cross-linking processes. The defects can be reduced or controlled in model networks, which are synthesized by end-linking of well-defined precursor polymers. This review summarizes the development in the synthesis and characterization of model networks. First, the basic concept of model networks and the possible structural defects are discussed. In the next section, attention is directed to the progress in the synthetic method of model networks, with a particular focus on the endlinking chemistry and the polymer types. Then, some important findings regarding the structure-property relationship of model networks are introduced, including the effects of the network topology as well as some unique phenomena such as supercoiling and strain-induced crystallization.