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Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPN): Structure and Mechanical Behavior

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Encyclopedia of Polymeric Nanomaterials

Synonyms

Co-continuous networks; Macrocyclic catenanes; Polymer blend network

Definition

Interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) refers to a type of elastomer in which two chemically distinct networks coexist, ideally having a structure that is homogeneous down to the segmental level [1]. The two components are present as co-continuous, interlocking networks (catenanes). This co-continuity can be achieved by kinetic retention of an initially miscible mixture of the monomers used to form the network chains, with phase segregation inhibited by the network structure, or be the result of thermodynamic compatibility of the constituent polymers. A specific type of IPN relies on solvent to promote miscibility of the two polymers. Hydrogel IPNs, which use water as the solvent, are not included in this review (see related entry Double Network Hydrogels: Soft and Tough IPN).

Introduction

The defining characteristic of polymers is the enormous size of the constituent molecules (“macromolecules”),...

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References

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Office of Naval Research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Chemistry Division, Naval Research Laboratory, Code 6120, Washington, DC, 20375-5342, USA

    C. M. Roland

Authors
  1. C. M. Roland
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Correspondence to C. M. Roland .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Kyoto Institute of Technology R & D Center for Bio-Based Materials, Kyoto, Japan

    Shiro Kobayashi

  2. Max-Planck-Institut für Polymerforschung, Mainz, Germany

    Klaus Müllen

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Roland, C.M. (2013). Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPN): Structure and Mechanical Behavior. In: Kobayashi, S., Müllen, K. (eds) Encyclopedia of Polymeric Nanomaterials. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-36199-9_91-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-36199-9_91-1

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  • Online ISBN: 978-3-642-36199-9

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