A new approach to the structure–properties relationship evaluation for porous polymer composites

In proposed study the effect of the composition and structure of polyurethane/ground rubber (PUR/GR) composites on the mechanical behavior was evaluated. The structure–properties relationship was studied for PUR matrices with different polarity, porosity and mechanical properties. The morphology of PUR/GR composites was expressed by two structural parameters—interspace filling and interspace volume. Experimental data of mechanical testing were fitted by power-law functions containing mentioned structural parameters whereas exponents of these parameters reflect differences in mechanical properties and chemical composition of PUR matrices. Obtained equations describe the mechanical behavior with respect to the structure and morphology of porous PUR/GR composites consisting of one filler and different PUR matrices. Proposed study suggests new approach to the description of the relationship between mechanical behavior and structure of porous composite materials.