Poss-containing nanocomposites based on polyurethane/poly(hydroxypropyl methacrylate) polymer matrix: dynamic mechanical properties and morphology

A series of nanocomposites based on multicomponent polymer matrix consisting of polyurethane (PU) and poly(hydroxypropyl methacrylate) (PHPMA), and 1,2-propanediolisobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS), used as functionalized nanofiller, have been synthesized. The effect of POSS content (0-10% by weight) on the dynamic mechanical properties (by DMA) and morphology (by SEM) have been investigated. The introduction of POSS into PU/PHPMA matrix was found results in increased (1.5-3 times) storage moduli of nanocomposites depend on amount of nanofiller. Investigation by SEM have shown that POSS-diol, introduced into the multicomponent polymer matrix acts as nanostructuring agent in the system. As a result, the nanocomposites with more ordered structure are formed leading to obtaining of materials with improved mechanical properties.