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Updated: Dec 25, 2025

Characterizing Dissipative Elastic Metamaterials Produced by Additive Manufacturing
Published on: June 28, 2024
An overview of viscoelastic phase separation in epoxy based blends
Anu Surendran1, Jomon Joy, Jyotishkumar Parameswaranpillai
1International and Inter University Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala 686560, India. sabuthomas@mgu.ac.in.
Viscoelastic effects during reaction-induced phase separation are crucial for toughening epoxy blends. Dynamic asymmetry, driven by component differences, significantly influences phase separation and material properties.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Rheology
Background:
- Viscoelastic effects are critical in reaction-induced phase separation (RIPS) for toughening epoxy-based blends.
- Dynamic asymmetry, arising from molecular weight and glass transition temperature differences, drives viscoelastic effects during RIPS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key factors governing viscoelastic phase separation (VPS) in epoxy blends and nanocomposites.
- To highlight characterization techniques and theoretical models for understanding VPS.
Main Methods:
- Time-resolved characterization techniques including rheometry, small-angle laser light scattering, and optical microscopy.
- Analysis of theoretical models for determining processing parameters in VPS.
Main Results:
- Nanofiller incorporation in epoxy blends enhances VPS by increasing dynamic asymmetry.
- VPS significantly influences blend domain parameters, ultimately affecting material properties and applications.
Conclusions:
- Understanding VPS is essential for optimizing the properties and applications of toughened epoxy-based materials.
- Viscoelasticity plays a pivotal role in controlling phase separation morphology and final material performance.
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