The abnormal behavior of polymers glass transition temperature increase and its mechanism

In terms of the classical theory in textbooks, the two components with phase separation in a binary polymer blend will, depending on their compatibility, have their respective T g get closer or remain in their original values. According to the classical theory, the T g of plastic component shall remain unchanged or move toward the lower T g of rubber component in a rubber/plastic blend. However, ultra-fine full-vulcanized powdered rubber (UFPR) with a diameter of ca. 100 nm can simultaneously increase the toughness and the T g of plastics, which is abnormal and is difficult to explain by classical theory. In this feature article, the abnormal behavior and its mechanism are discussed in detail.