Polymeric materials that self-assemble into hierarchal structures have been an area of intense research interest due to the unique properties resulting from their morphology.  However, for many applications, they must have the toughness and durability to withstand a wide range of environmental and operational conditions, which can be an issue with many soft materials.  To address these potential limitations, thermoplastic elastomer gels composed of poly[styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene] (SEBS) and mineral oil were loaded with nanoparticles differing in size and surface functionality.  Their morphology and mechanical properties were studied to examine how the interactions between the nanoparticles and the triblock copolymer gel affect the performance of the material.  It was found that these parameters dramatically affect the toughness and fracture mechanics.  A detailed understanding of these relationships will expand the scope of possible applications for these gels.

Modification of thermoplastic elastomer gels through nanoparticle addition

240th National Meeting (2010)

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