Modification of Epoxy Systems: From Classical Thermoplastics to Self-Organizing Nanomodifiers and Reactive Systems

Abstract This review addresses current trends in the development of approaches to the modification of epoxy systems with polymers. The use of thermoplastics inert to the components of epoxy systems, including structural thermoplastics, block copolymers, and dendritic and hyperbranched polymers for modifying epoxy resins is considered, as well as combined modification with thermoplastics and fillers. In addition, the review highlights the use of reactive polymers for modifying epoxy systems; these compounds can participate in the curing reaction of epoxy resins under certain conditions, incorporating into the structure of the resulting crosslinked material; the potential advantages of such modifiers are discussed. Particular attention is given to reactive polymers and copolymers containing anhydride groups.