Abstract
Epoxy resins have high solvent resistance and high creep resistance in consequence with the network structure. However, the network structure may be the source of the brittleness. In order to improve the fracture toughness of the epoxy resins, several types of modifications have been applied. Initially in this review, reaction-induced phase separation method and particle-addition type toughening technology are compared from viewpoints of industrial application. Then, the mechanisms of particle-addition type toughening technology (ex. rubber particles, glass particles and thermoplastic particles) are individually discussed, which followed by the discussions on the role of the particulate modifiers and the epoxy resins as matrix in the toughening mechanisms.
