Crystallization of Poly (ethylene glycol) in Poly (methyl methacrylate) Networks

The crystallization of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) networks were studied, which was compared with that of PEG homopolymer. Melting point (T-m) of PEG in PMMA networks is lower than that of pure PEG; the crystallinity and T(m)s of PEG in PMMA networks somewhat increase with increasing of PEG content; the cross-linker content of PMMA networks plays an important role for the crystallization of PEG. When the cross-linker content is between 3.5 wt% and 5.8 wt%, the distinct endothermic peak of PEG crystal fusion can be observed. Optical microscopic observation of the crystallized PEG in PMMA networks showed spherulite formation, indicating there was the co-continuous crystalline PEG in PMMA networks.