Formation and elasticity of layer networks

Abstract

Layer network formation of poly(styrene-alt-n-octadecylmaleimide) in dodecane is investigated. It is shown that the polymer in the bulk exhibits lamellar structures of alternated alkane side-chain and main-chain layers. Adding dodecane into the polymer separates the polymer layers, increases the mean distance between the layers, and results in a less orderly layered structure. Crystallization of the alkane side chains introduces linkages to staple the layers together and builds up a layer network. Dimensional analysis predicts that the modulus (G) of the layer network is simply related to the long period (L) of the layer network through a cubic power law, i.e., G ∼ L−3. This prediction is indeed observed experimentally. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 37: 667–677, 1999