Synthesis and toughening of fluorine containing networks

Abstract

A thermosetting resin based on vinylic reactive end groups was prepared and its network formation investigated. Highly crosslinked network structures were produced which showed high modulus but poor fracture toughness. Vinylbenzoyl end-capped perfluoroalkylene oligomers were chemically reacted into the network to thermoplastic toughen without sacrificing the high modulus or good dielectric characteristics. A two phase morphology resulted in which the thermoplastic phase separated into discrete composite particles within the matrix of the network, affording tougher materials as judged by K1,c measurements.