Use of rigid thermoplastics for toughening an optical network polymer

Blends of the thermoset poly(allyl diglycol carbonate) (PADC) with thermoplastic polymethacrylates have been prepared by dissolving polymethacrylates in allyl diglycol carbonate (ADC) monomer and subsequent polymerisation of ADC. The polymethacrylates formed separate phases in the blends as shown by scanning electron micrographs. The dynamic mechanical data showed two distinct high-temperature peaks corresponding to the glass transition temperatures of the PADC and polymethacrylates. Fracture toughness tests showed a significant increase in the critical intensity factor k(c) of PADC by addition of only 10% (w/w) a ductile thermoplastic poly(ethyl methacrylate). Young's modulus at room temperature showed no reduction by addition of the thermoplastic component. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.