The influence of the nature of the chemical reaction on the structure and properties of blends in the reactive blending of polymers

Polymer blends, the preparation of which is accompanied by various chemical reactions and the formation of specific intermolecular bonds between the components, are analysed. The factors influencing the phase structure of the materials obtained are identified and their relative contributions to its formation are estimated. The influence of the blend composition, nature, and concentration of the functional groups and of the temperature regimes in the blending process is examined. A systematic treatment of the results of experimental and theoretical studies of the method of utilisation of functional groups — direct interaction of the reaction groups in the blended polymers or the introduction of low- and high-molecular reagents capable of interacting with the macromolecules of the blend components — is proposed. It is noted that quantitative data on the variation of the thermodynamic affinity of the blend components and on the rates of mass transfer controlling the formation of the phase structure are limited. Certain theoretical models of the structure of reactive polymer blends, which explain their mechanical properties, are discussed. The priority aspects of studies on the processes involved in the reactive blending of polymers are noted. The bibliography includes 212 references.