Heterophase systems, mechanisms interface

Rubber-resin heterophase systems are classified as (1) resin as the disperse phase, (2) rubber as the disperse phase, (3) grafted rubber latex particles as the disperse phase, and (4) filled graft rubber as the disperse phase. Adhesion mechanisms related to these systems are discussed. Special emphasis is made on the last two systems which involve grafting. The graft rubber isolated from the fourth system is characterized. The graft rubber is shown to function as a compatibilizer and as an adhesive or a coupling agent for the rubber-resin interface. 

The proper characterization and description of the interfaces between the phases is a key technical challenge to simulating the mechanical properties of heterophasic systems under large deformations. This challenge will be discussed now in the context of the conceptual framework of cohesive (bulk) and adhesive (interfacial) failure which was introduced in Section 7.C. 

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