Die Struktur vernetzter Polymerer

Abstract

The chemical and physical structures of ordered and random networks are reviewed. Three definitions are used to differentiate networks from non-crosslinked structures: a phenomenological (insolubility, limited swelling, infusibility), molecular (chemical and physical bonds, functionality of primary molecules, arrangement of structural elements) and operational ones (mechanical behaviour on stress, etc.). The implications of the definitions are discussed. Ordered networks may be divided into cages, ladder, sheet and space polymers, random networks into intermolecular and intramolecular networks. Examples are given for each type of network.