Influence of thiol and ene functionalities on thiol-ene networks: Photopolymerization, physical, mechanical, and optical properties

Photopolymerization behaviour of thiol-ene networks consisting of di-, tri-, tetra- and hexa-functional thiol and acrylate monomers was evaluated. For understanding the effect of monomer functionality on polymer properties, a comprehensive investigation of the fundamental physical, mechanical and optical properties of thiol-ene networks was conducted. The results indicate that monomer functionality can considerably influence the physical properties, thermal behaviour and optical performance of such networks. As the monomer functionality improved, the number of functional group conversions, shear strength, T_g, storage modulus and reflective index increased.