As most thermoset materials are based on monomeric (non-crosslinked polymers) materials which are more-or-less structurally equivalent, (low molecular weight, broad polydispersities) with exception to functional equivalent weights, are there any other structural components not yet considered, which might improve elastic modulus?
Dear George Cernigliaro, excuse me to tell you that I am in total disagreament with the details you have stated after the question. Once to say thermoset means that the material is crosslinked whatever the initial reactants (monomeric, oligomers, prepolymers, polymeric). For thermosets, MW and MWD have no meaning and the matrix is a one 3D mass. Elasticity comes from any element in this matrix which is able to store the input energy or stress. These are generally, reversible bond angles deformation, crosslink bridges stretching, conformational changes. My Regards
Dear Abdelkader,
Thanks for your answer! Am in agreement with you regarding the final crosslinked matrix, but my point is in the design of the epoxy-monomer to be crosslinked. Are there molecular elements to the design of the monomer which might contribute to bulk structural elasticity? If I wasn't clear in the initial statement, I apologize. I hope this helps.
There is nothing restricting you from adding second functionalization or using a mixture of monomers which have varying structures which promote folding, etc. analogous to a traditional copolymer.
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