Design of tough nanostructured polymer networks using Polymerization Induced Self-Assembly in reactive media

We propose a new route to toughen epoxy thermosets from reactive block copolymer (BCP) dispersion masterbatches. Our approach relies on i) the controlled in situ formation and self-assembly of AB block copolymers (with an A core-forming rubbery block for mechanical energy dissipation and a B block ensuring stabilization of the self-assemblies) into a range of spherical, vesicular and most-desired worm-like morphologies by RAFT polymerization induced self-assembly (PISA) in epoxy monomers and ii) the subsequent polymerization of the epoxy monomers. In this context, we aim at i) establishing phase diagrams of the reactive dispersions as a function of solid content (10 to 40 wt %), molar mass of both blocks and their relative compositions to secure access to the most-desired higher-order morphologies in the epoxy monomer and ii) investigating the fate of these morphologies while curing the thermoset (dilution with the epoxy monomer and/or the hardener, heating cycles triggering curing).